Ask a Question

Get free answers to your Criminal Law legal questions from lawyers in your area.

Lawyers, increase your visibility by answering questions and getting points. Answer Questions
Arkansas Criminal Law Questions & Answers
1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: Cost to petition for early termination of felony probation

I have been on felony probation for two years, with the original probation period being longer. I had a possession of marijuana charge once, but I've been sober from meth for three years with no further related charges. What is the cost involved in petitioning for early termination of my... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Seeking early termination of your felony probation in California involves several steps, each with associated costs. Filing a petition typically requires preparing and submitting forms such as the Petition for Dismissal (Form CR-180) and the Order for Dismissal (Form CR-181), along with any... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Arkansas on
Q: What are my rights if asked to speak with CID due to a roommate's warrant?

I share a residence with someone who I discovered has a warrant. We are not close and only share living arrangements until I can move into my own place. After informing officers about my limited relationship with him, an officer asked me to speak with CID at the sheriff's office. I have not... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Criminal Investigation Interview Rights Analysis

You have no legal obligation to speak with Criminal Investigation Division (CID) officers without formal documentation such as a subpoena or court order. The request for an interview appears voluntary rather than mandatory, and you maintain...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Business Law for Arkansas on
Q: Felony threshold for bogus check in Arkansas

In Arkansas, how much does a check need to be for it to be classified as a felony if it's a bogus check? There are ongoing legal proceedings against me related to a business check that has my personal name on it. The check was returned due to issues with the account.

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

In Arkansas, the severity of penalties for issuing a worthless check depends on the check's value. Checks valued at $200 or less typically result in misdemeanor charges, with fines ranging from $50 to $500 and potential imprisonment of up to one year. However, for checks exceeding $200, the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Car Accidents, Criminal Law and Personal Injury for Arkansas on
Q: Can I be jailed for car insurance violations and accident involvement in Arkansas?

I was involved in an accident in Arkansas while driving without car insurance, which led to violations related to the accident. I was arrested for missing a court date and paid a $955 cash bond to get out. I have an upcoming court date on March 7 regarding this situation. Can I be locked up for... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

You're right to be concerned, and it's good that you're preparing ahead of your court date. In Arkansas, driving without car insurance is a violation that can come with penalties like fines, license suspension, or having your vehicle impounded—but it usually doesn’t lead to jail... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: Can a first-time offender under A.C.A. 5-12-103 get good time in Arkansas?

I have a question about an offender currently serving time in Arkansas for a first-time offense under A.C.A. 5-12-103. Will the offender be eligible for good time credit?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

In Arkansas, eligibility for good time credit depends on the classification of the offense and the specific circumstances of the sentence. Under Arkansas law, certain offenses are ineligible for good time credit, while others may allow for it.

For a first-time offense under A.C.A. §...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Federal Crimes and Cannabis & Marijuana Law for Arkansas on
Q: Was the stop and vehicle search legal after finding a weed sack?

My husband was stopped in Arkansas for unconfirmed insurance, though he had proof with him. During the stop, the officer saw a small weed sack in the cupholder and used this to justify searching the vehicle, where he found a gun next to the driver's seat. My husband, a convicted felon due to a... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

In Arkansas, the legality of the stop and search depends on whether the officer had reasonable suspicion to justify both. While the initial stop was based on unconfirmed insurance, which is a valid reason for a traffic stop, the officer needed additional justification to search the vehicle. If the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Arkansas on
Q: How can I retrieve property seized after my criminal case in Arkansas?

I had a criminal case that was closed over three years ago in Saline County, Arkansas. Two of my computers and three flash drives were seized and are currently held by the Little Rock Police Department. The prosecutor advised me to file a petition with the Saline County court to retrieve my... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

To retrieve your seized property, you will need to file a petition for the return of property with the appropriate court. Since your case was closed, the Saline County court should have records of your case, and you can start by requesting the necessary paperwork from them. The court may provide a... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Juvenile Law, Child Custody and Family Law for Arkansas on
Q: Penalties for minor drinking beer on school property in Arkansas?

What penalties could a 15-year-old minor face for being caught drinking a can of beer on school property in Arkansas? The minor was found by school authorities and is required to report to court. The minor has had past disciplinary actions, although the specifics are unclear since his father, who... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

In Arkansas, a 15-year-old caught drinking beer on school property could face serious penalties. Under Arkansas law, minors are prohibited from possessing or consuming alcohol, especially on school grounds. The penalties for violating this law could include fines, mandatory community service, or... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Family Law for Arkansas on
Q: Should I have a lawyer for a class A misdemeanor assault in Arkansas?

I am 54 years old and have never had any legal issues before. On March 26, I was arrested for a class A misdemeanor assault (3rd degree) for allegedly causing apprehension of imminent injury. The incident is said to be on video, but my boss has not shown it to me. I'm accused of placing my... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Yes, it would be wise to have a lawyer for a class A misdemeanor assault charge, especially given the seriousness of the accusation. Even though this is your first legal issue, assault charges can lead to significant consequences, including fines, potential jail time, or a permanent criminal... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: Parole guidance for 1st-time offender Class B felony 5-12-102

I'm inquiring about the expected sentence for a first-time offender who has pleaded guilty to a Class B felony under statute 5-12-102. The individual received a 20-year sentence and has been incarcerated for 7 years, yet hasn't been considered for parole or seen a parole board. What... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

In your situation, the fact that the individual has served 7 years of a 20-year sentence is important when considering parole eligibility. Generally, for a Class B felony, parole eligibility can depend on the state’s specific laws and the individual’s behavior while incarcerated. Some states... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Family Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Arkansas on
Q: Is it illegal for a pregnant woman to use drugs, and how can it be reported?

Is it illegal for a woman to use drugs like methamphetamine with syringes while knowingly pregnant, and how can this be reported? The individual has a history of substance abuse, and there are visible track marks on her arms and feet. Social Services offer support, but she expresses disregard for... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Using drugs like methamphetamine while pregnant can have serious legal and health consequences for both the mother and the unborn child. While drug use itself may not always be a criminal act for the mother, it can lead to charges if it results in harm to the child. In many states, if a baby is... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: What is my likely sentence for meth possession in Arkansas with prior conviction?

I was pulled over while operating my motorcycle without a license and consented to a search, during which I was found to be in possession of 3 grams of meth. I have a prior conviction from years ago but have been off parole for two years. This incident occurred in Little River County, Arkansas, and... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Facing Significant Penalties for Methamphetamine Possession in Arkansas

Based on Arkansas law, you're facing serious consequences for possession of 3 grams of methamphetamine. Since your possession amount is between 2 and 10 grams, this constitutes a Class C felony in Arkansas, which...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law, Civil Litigation and Personal Injury for Arkansas on
Q: Pet sitter stole tools and admitted in a message, need legal recourse

While I was out of town, I asked a 51-year-old individual to feed my pet, and he entered my locked garage and stole approximately $15,000 worth of tools. I am 67 years old. He admitted to taking the items in a Facebook message and has since engraved his initials on the tools to misrepresent... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 12, 2025

Legal Strategies for Recovering Your Stolen Tools

You have a strong civil case to recover your tools, especially with the Facebook message admission. The first step is to compile detailed documentation of all stolen items, including descriptions, values, and any evidence of your ownership...
View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: Eligibility to purchase a handgun after felony reduced to misdemeanor.

I was charged with a felony aggravated assault in 2010, but the charge was reduced to a misdemeanor after I completed probation and paid restitution fees. I have no other criminal charges or convictions, am not on probation, and have no pending legal cases. Although I am uncertain if my civil... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 27, 2025

The reduction of your felony to a misdemeanor is a positive step, but firearm eligibility involves complex federal and state laws. Federal law typically prohibits those with felony convictions from purchasing firearms, but when a felony is reduced to a misdemeanor, your eligibility may be restored... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: Is it possible for a sex offender in mississippi ar to get off unsupervised probation early with no incindents
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 13, 2025

Based on Mississippi criminal law, early termination of unsupervised probation for a sex offender is potentially possible, though subject to significant restrictions. Mississippi Code § 47-7-38 allows courts to discharge an offender from probation at any time if warranted by the conduct of the... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Civil Rights for Arkansas on
Q: Charged with possession of controlled substance, suspect targeting, how to fight?

I was charged with possession of a controlled substance for more than 4 ounces, but I only had 0.5 grams. The police had no reason to search my car, and I did not consent to the search. There was one witness to my arrest, and I suspect I'm being targeted since I've been pulled over four... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 26, 2025

Fighting a possession charge when the amounts don't match up requires immediate action to protect your rights. The significant discrepancy between 0.5 grams and 4+ ounces strongly suggests a potential mistake or misconduct that could be central to your defense. You should document everything... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Domestic Violence for Arkansas on
Q: Can a domestic battery charge no-contact order be dismissed before a plea hearing?

I am facing domestic battery 3rd degree charges along with my husband, and a police-ordered no-contact order has been issued. We have no criminal history or prior legal incidents, and I am not represented by legal counsel. Our plea hearing is scheduled for April 15, 2025. Is it possible to get the... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 13, 2025

It is possible to request that a no-contact order be dismissed before your plea hearing, but it's not guaranteed. The decision is typically up to the judge, who will consider various factors, including the nature of the charges and whether there are safety concerns. Since your plea hearing is... View More

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law and Gov & Administrative Law for Arkansas on
Q: How does mental capacity and property status affect charges of reckless burning and criminal mischief?

My ex-roommate has been charged with reckless burning, criminal mischief, and breaking and entering regarding an apartment that was deemed uninhabitable by the city code enforcement department. We both still had belongings in the apartment. Additionally, my ex-roommate has an IQ level of 67. How... View More

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 13, 2025

When dealing with charges like reckless burning, criminal mischief, and breaking and entering, an individual's mental capacity can play a significant role in how the case is handled. Since your ex-roommate has an IQ level of 67, her mental state could be considered in the legal proceedings.... View More

2 Answers | Asked in Criminal Law, Gov & Administrative Law and Medical Malpractice for Arkansas on
Q: Nurse facing a non-criminal accusation, state board found no action, AG wants interview – next steps?

My husband, a nurse, was accused of inappropriately touching a patient during a bath. The state board of nursing investigated for 14 months and found no grounds for disciplinary action. He was interviewed by the local police with no charges filed. Now, 24 months later, the attorney general’s... View More

Richard Lane Hughes
Richard Lane Hughes pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Mar 18, 2025

I don't understand why you "couldn’t find legal representation initially since there were no criminal charges." When you are asked or directed to be interviewed by a branch of government or law enforcement agency, you should always have an attorney with you when there is the... View More

View More Answers

1 Answer | Asked in Criminal Law for Arkansas on
Q: How should I plea for a first-time misdemeanor tampering charge?

I have a misdemeanor tampering with physical evidence charge in Marion, Arkansas. This is my first offense, and I have a court date scheduled for today. I have not spoken to a lawyer about how to plead. What should I consider before making my plea?

James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
answered on Apr 13, 2025

Before making a plea, it's crucial to understand the potential consequences of your charge. A tampering with physical evidence charge can have serious ramifications, including fines, probation, or jail time. Since this is your first offense, the court may offer more leniency, but it's... View More

Justia Ask A Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get free answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask A Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between Justia and you, or between any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions and you, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask A Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises, or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.