Craighead County Divorce Records
What Are Craighead County Divorce Records?
Divorce records in Craighead County are official legal documents maintained by the county circuit court that document the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are governed by the Arkansas Code § 9-12-301, which establishes the legal grounds for divorce within the state. The Circuit Court of Craighead County maintains these records as part of its official court proceedings.
Divorce records typically consist of several documents that chronicle the legal process of marriage dissolution, including:
- Petition for divorce (initial filing)
- Summons and proof of service
- Response from the defendant spouse
- Financial affidavits and property settlements
- Child custody and support arrangements (if applicable)
- Final divorce decree or judgment
These records serve multiple important purposes for individuals and society:
- Legal proof of marital status change
- Documentation required for remarriage
- Evidence for name change processes
- Verification for Social Security benefits
- Supporting documentation for loan applications
- Required evidence for immigration matters
- Historical and genealogical research
The Arkansas Judiciary maintains divorce records as part of its commitment to transparent judicial proceedings while balancing privacy considerations for the parties involved.
Are Craighead County Divorce Records Public?
Divorce records in Craighead County maintain a dual status regarding public accessibility. Court divorce case files are generally considered public records under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act § 25-19-105, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.
The public may access:
- Basic case information (parties' names, case numbers, filing dates)
- Court docket entries
- Final divorce decrees (with certain redactions)
- Most motions and pleadings filed with the court
Restricted information typically includes:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account information
- Minor children's identifying information
- Sensitive personal data protected under Arkansas Code § 16-90-104
- Sealed records by judicial order
Certified divorce certificates, which provide official verification of a divorce, have more restricted access. Pursuant to Arkansas vital records regulations, these documents are available only to:
- Former spouses named in the record
- Legal representatives with proper authorization
- Individuals with a demonstrable legal interest
- Immediate family members in certain circumstances
The Circuit Clerk of Craighead County maintains divorce records in accordance with state regulations governing both transparency and privacy protection.
How To Find a Divorce Record In Craighead County in 2026
Members of the public seeking divorce records in Craighead County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The primary custodian of divorce records is the Craighead County Circuit Clerk's office.
In-person requests:
- Visit the Craighead County Circuit Clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form, providing case number if known, or names and approximate date of divorce
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees (currently $0.25 per page for copies, $5.00 for certified copies)
Craighead County Circuit Clerk - Jonesboro Office
511 S. Main Street, Suite 202
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 933-4530
Craighead County Circuit Clerk
Craighead County Circuit Clerk - Lake City Office
107 Cobean Boulevard
Lake City, AR 72437
(870) 237-4170
Craighead County Circuit Clerk
Mail requests:
- Submit a written request to the Circuit Clerk's office
- Include case information, contact details, and specific records requested
- Enclose a self-addressed stamped envelope
- Include payment for applicable fees (check or money order)
Online searches: The Arkansas Judiciary provides the CourtConnect system for searching basic case information. While full documents may not be available online, this system helps locate case numbers and filing dates to facilitate more specific requests.
For certified divorce verification certificates (not full court records), requests may be submitted to:
Arkansas Department of Health - Vital Records Section
4815 W. Markham Street, Slot 44
Little Rock, AR 72205
(501) 661-2336
Arkansas Department of Health
How To Look Up Divorce Records in Craighead County Online?
Craighead County residents and interested parties may access certain divorce record information through online platforms maintained by the Arkansas Judiciary. The primary online resource is the Arkansas Judiciary's Search ARCourts system, which provides public access to basic case information.
To conduct an online search for divorce records:
- Navigate to the Arkansas Judiciary's Search ARCourts portal
- Select "Circuit Court" as the court type
- Choose "Craighead County" from the county dropdown menu
- Select "Domestic Relations" as the case category
- Enter at least one search parameter:
- Party name (last name, first name)
- Case number (if known)
- Filing date range
- Review search results showing basic case information
- Note the case number and filing date for further inquiries
Important limitations of online searches include:
- Full document images are generally not available online
- Certain case details may be restricted from public view
- Historical records (typically pre-2000) may not be included in the database
- Information accuracy should be verified through official court records
For more comprehensive searches or to obtain actual document copies, users must contact the Craighead County Circuit Clerk directly or utilize the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts resources for additional guidance on accessing court records.
The online system provides a convenient starting point for locating case information, but complete divorce records typically require in-person or written requests to the Circuit Clerk's office.
How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Craighead County?
Craighead County residents seeking no-cost access to divorce records have several options available, though certain limitations apply to free record searches. The following methods provide access without payment of copy fees:
In-person inspection: The Arkansas Freedom of Information Act grants the public the right to inspect public records during regular business hours. Individuals may:
- Visit the Craighead County Circuit Clerk's office
- Request to view specific divorce case files
- Examine records on-site without charge
- Take notes from the records
Craighead County Law Library:
511 S. Main Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 933-4568
Craighead County Law Library
The law library maintains public access terminals for searching court records and may have resources for locating divorce cases.
Online basic information: The Arkansas Judiciary's CourtConnect system provides free access to basic case information, including:
- Party names
- Case numbers
- Filing dates
- Case type
- Judge assignment
- Docket entries (list of filings)
Public access computers: The Circuit Clerk's office maintains public access terminals where visitors may search the court's electronic case management system without charge.
Important considerations regarding free access:
- While inspection is free, copy fees still apply ($0.25 per page)
- Certified copies always require payment of certification fees
- Staff assistance for extensive searches may incur research fees
- Some older records may be stored off-site, limiting immediate access
- Confidential or sealed records remain inaccessible regardless of fee payment
Pursuant to Arkansas Code § 16-20-107, the Circuit Clerk is authorized to charge reasonable fees for copies of public records, but inspection rights remain protected under state law.
What's Included in a Divorce Records In Craighead County
Divorce records in Craighead County comprise a comprehensive collection of documents that chronicle the legal dissolution of marriage. These records typically contain several distinct components that document the entire divorce proceeding from initiation to final judgment.
The standard divorce file includes:
Initial Pleadings:
- Complaint/Petition for Divorce - The initiating document stating grounds for divorce and requested relief
- Summons - Official notice to the respondent about the divorce action
- Proof of Service - Documentation showing the respondent received legal notice
- Answer/Response - The non-filing spouse's formal reply to divorce allegations
- Counterclaims (if applicable) - Additional claims by the respondent
Financial Documentation:
- Affidavit of Financial Means - Sworn statements detailing each party's income, assets, and expenses
- Property and Debt Schedules - Listings of marital and separate property
- Child Support Worksheets (if applicable) - Calculations for determining support obligations
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - Documents dividing retirement accounts
Procedural Documents:
- Temporary Orders - Court directives governing conduct during the pending divorce
- Motions and Responses - Requests for court action and opposing arguments
- Discovery Materials - Information exchanged between parties (interrogatories, depositions)
- Hearing Notices - Scheduled court appearances
- Court Orders - Judicial decisions on various matters throughout the case
Settlement Documents:
- Property Settlement Agreement - Contract detailing division of assets and debts
- Child Custody Agreement - Parenting plan outlining custody and visitation arrangements
- Child Support Agreement - Terms for financial support of minor children
Final Judgment:
- Divorce Decree - The final court order terminating the marriage
- Findings of Fact and Conclusions of Law - Detailed judicial reasoning
- Name Change Order (if applicable) - Authorization to resume maiden/former name
The Circuit Court maintains these records in accordance with Arkansas Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 19, which governs access to court records while protecting sensitive personal information.
How To Get Proof of Divorce In Craighead County?
Individuals requiring official proof of divorce in Craighead County have multiple options for obtaining certified documentation. The type of proof needed often depends on the requesting party's specific requirements.
Certified Copy of Divorce Decree: The most comprehensive proof of divorce is a certified copy of the final divorce decree from the Craighead County Circuit Clerk's office.
To obtain this document:
- Visit or contact the Circuit Clerk's office with the case number (if known) or names of parties and approximate divorce date
- Complete a records request form
- Present valid identification
- Pay the certification fee (currently $5.00 per document plus $0.25 per page)
- Receive the certified copy with the Circuit Clerk's official seal
Craighead County Circuit Clerk
511 S. Main Street, Suite 202
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 933-4530
Craighead County Circuit Clerk
Certificate of Divorce Record: For some purposes (such as name changes or remarriage), a Certificate of Divorce Record from the Arkansas Department of Health may be sufficient.
To request this certificate:
- Complete the Arkansas Vital Records Application
- Provide identification and proof of eligibility to receive the record
- Submit the application with required fee ($10.00 for first copy, $8.00 for each additional copy)
- Include a copy of your government-issued photo ID
Arkansas Department of Health - Vital Records Section
4815 W. Markham Street, Slot 44
Little Rock, AR 72205
(501) 661-2336
Arkansas Department of Health
Verification Letter: For some purposes, a verification letter from the Circuit Clerk confirming the divorce may be sufficient.
Important considerations:
- Certified copies are required for most legal purposes
- Only parties to the divorce and their legal representatives can obtain certain records
- Divorce records from 1923 to present are maintained by the Circuit Clerk
- Expedited service may be available for an additional fee
- Mail requests typically require additional processing time
Pursuant to Arkansas Code § 16-46-101, certified copies of court records are admissible as evidence in all Arkansas courts and for most official purposes.
Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Craighead County?
While divorce proceedings in Craighead County are generally matters of public record, Arkansas law provides several mechanisms through which certain aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. The court balances the public's right to access judicial records with legitimate privacy interests of the parties involved.
Sealing Records: Under Arkansas Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 19, a judge may order divorce records sealed or redacted when:
- The privacy interest outweighs the public's right to access
- Disclosure would result in unwarranted invasion of personal privacy
- Records contain trade secrets or confidential business information
- Publication would create risk of harm to an individual
- The case involves matters concerning minor children
To request confidentiality:
- File a motion to seal with the Circuit Court
- Demonstrate compelling reasons for confidentiality
- Attend a hearing where the judge will consider the request
- Obtain a court order specifically identifying which documents are sealed
Automatically Protected Information: Certain information is automatically protected from public disclosure in divorce filings:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Names of minor children (in many contexts)
- Medical and mental health records
- Victim information in cases involving domestic violence
Alternative Dispute Resolution: Parties seeking greater privacy may utilize:
- Mediation - Confidential negotiation process with a neutral third party
- Collaborative divorce - Private process with attorneys committed to settlement
- Arbitration - Private decision-making by a selected arbitrator
Confidential Settlements: While the final divorce decree becomes public record, parties may:
- Include minimal details in the decree
- Reference separate confidential settlement agreements
- Use non-disclosure agreements for certain aspects of the settlement
The Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 5(c) provides guidance on protecting sensitive information in court filings. Parties concerned about privacy should consult with an attorney regarding available options for maintaining confidentiality while complying with legal requirements for divorce proceedings.
How Long Does a Divorce Take In Craighead County?
The duration of divorce proceedings in Craighead County varies significantly based on multiple factors related to case complexity, cooperation between parties, and court scheduling. Under Arkansas law, specific timeframes and waiting periods affect the overall timeline.
Minimum Statutory Timeframes:
- Arkansas imposes a mandatory 30-day waiting period from filing to finalization per Arkansas Code § 9-12-310
- Residency requirement: At least 60 days in Arkansas before filing
- Service of process typically adds 30-45 days to the timeline
- Court docket congestion may add 30-90 days for hearing dates
Uncontested Divorce Timeline: When parties agree on all issues, the process typically takes:
- 60-90 days from filing to finalization (simple cases)
- Documentation preparation: 1-2 weeks
- Filing and service: 1-4 weeks
- Waiting period: 30 days minimum
- Court processing and judge's signature: 1-3 weeks
Contested Divorce Timeline: When parties disagree on significant issues, the process extends considerably:
- 6-12 months is typical for moderately contested cases
- Complex asset division or custody disputes: 12-18 months
- Discovery process: 2-4 months
- Temporary orders hearing: 30-60 days after filing
- Mediation: 3-6 months into the process
- Trial scheduling: 6-12 months from filing (depending on court calendar)
Factors Affecting Timeline:
- Complexity of assets and debts to be divided
- Child custody and support determinations
- Spousal support/alimony considerations
- Attorney workloads and availability
- Court calendar congestion
- Willingness of parties to negotiate
- Need for expert witnesses (business valuations, custody evaluations)
According to the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts, the average disposition time for domestic relations cases in Craighead County is approximately 180 days, though individual cases may vary significantly from this average.
Expedited procedures may be available in cases involving domestic violence under the Arkansas Domestic Abuse Act § 9-15-201, which provides for emergency protective orders.
How Long Does Craighead County Keep Divorce Records?
Craighead County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established by the Arkansas Supreme Court and state archival requirements. The preservation timeframes vary based on record type and historical significance.
Permanent Retention:
- Final Divorce Decrees - Maintained permanently as official court judgments
- Case Indices - Permanent retention for reference purposes
- Docket Books - Preserved indefinitely as historical court records
- Property Settlement Agreements - Permanently retained as part of the decree
These permanent records are initially maintained by the Craighead County Circuit Clerk, then eventually transferred to the Arkansas State Archives for long-term preservation according to Arkansas Code § 13-4-301, which establishes the state's records management program.
Extended Retention (10+ Years):
- Case Files (excluding final decree) - Typically retained for 10 years after case closure
- Financial Affidavits - Maintained for 10 years
- Child Support Orders - Retained until the youngest child reaches age 23
- Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) - Kept for 10 years after filing
Medium-Term Retention (3-10 Years):
- Temporary Orders - Usually retained for 3 years after case closure
- Procedural Motions - Kept for 5 years after final disposition
- Discovery Materials - Maintained for 3 years after case closure
- Hearing Transcripts - Preserved for 7 years unless part of an appeal
Digital Conversion: Since approximately 2000, Craighead County has implemented digital record-keeping systems that have altered physical retention practices:
- Many recent records exist in both paper and digital formats
- Electronic records are maintained indefinitely in the court's case management system
- Older paper records may be microfilmed or digitized before destruction
Individuals seeking historical divorce records should note:
- Pre-1923 divorce records may be housed in the Arkansas State Archives
- Records from 1923-1985 may be in microfilm or archived storage
- Recent records (post-2000) are more readily accessible through the clerk's office
The Arkansas Supreme Court's Administrative Order No. 7 governs court records retention, while the Arkansas General Records Retention Schedule provides additional guidance on maintaining public records.
How To Get a Divorce In Craighead County
Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Craighead County must follow specific procedures established by Arkansas law. The divorce process involves several distinct steps from initial filing through final judgment.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Residency: At least one spouse must have been an Arkansas resident for 60 days before filing and three months before the final decree
- Grounds: Arkansas recognizes both fault-based and no-fault grounds under Arkansas Code § 9-12-301
- No-fault option: "General indignities" or 18-month separation
- Mandatory waiting period: 30 days from filing to finalization
Filing Process:
- Prepare the Complaint for Divorce and related documents
- File paperwork with the Craighead County Circuit Clerk
- Pay filing fees (approximately $165, with potential fee waivers available for indigent parties)
- Serve divorce papers on the spouse according to Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure
- Wait for the spouse's response (typically 30 days)
Craighead County Circuit Court
511 S. Main Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 933-4570
Craighead County Circuit Court
Uncontested Divorce Procedure: If both parties agree on all issues:
- Prepare a written settlement agreement addressing property division, debt allocation, and child-related matters
- File the agreement with the court
- Schedule an uncontested hearing after the waiting period
- Attend the brief hearing where the judge reviews and approves the agreement
- Receive the final divorce decree
Contested Divorce Procedure: If disputes exist regarding significant issues:
- Participate in temporary orders hearing (if requested)
- Engage in discovery process to exchange information
- Attend court-ordered mediation to attempt resolution
- Prepare for trial if settlement cannot be reached
- Present evidence and testimony at trial
- Receive judge's ruling and final decree
Post-Divorce Matters:
- File the decree with the Circuit Clerk
- Implement property transfers according to the decree
- Update estate planning documents
- Change names on accounts, titles, and identification
- Establish child support payment mechanisms if applicable
The Arkansas Judiciary provides self-help resources for individuals proceeding without an attorney, though legal representation is advisable for complex cases.
How To Get Divorce Papers In Craighead County
Individuals initiating or responding to divorce proceedings in Craighead County have several options for obtaining the necessary legal forms and documents. The specific papers required depend on the case circumstances and whether children or significant assets are involved.
Circuit Clerk's Office: The primary source for official divorce forms is the Craighead County Circuit Clerk's office.
Craighead County Circuit Clerk
511 S. Main Street, Suite 202
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 933-4530
Craighead County Circuit Clerk
Available forms typically include:
- Complaint/Petition for Divorce
- Summons
- Domestic Relations Cover Sheet
- Affidavit of Financial Means (for cases involving children)
- Child Support Worksheet
- Waiver of Service (if applicable)
- Final Decree template
Arkansas Judiciary Self-Help Resources: The Administrative Office of the Courts provides standardized forms through their website.
Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts
Justice Building
625 Marshall Street
Little Rock, AR 72201
(501) 682-9400
Arkansas Judiciary
Online resources include:
- Divorce packet instructions
- Fillable PDF forms
- Checklists for required documents
- Information on filing procedures
Legal Aid Organizations: Free or low-cost assistance with divorce paperwork is available through:
Legal Aid of Arkansas
714 S. Main Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 972-9224
Legal Aid of Arkansas
Services include:
- Document preparation assistance
- Review of completed forms
- Guidance on filing procedures
- Referrals to pro bono attorneys
Law Library Resources: The Craighead County Law Library maintains reference materials and form books.
Craighead County Law Library
511 S. Main Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(870) 933-4568
Craighead County Law Library
Available resources include:
- Arkansas Practice Series volumes
- Form books with templates
- Computer access for online research
- Reference assistance from library staff
Important considerations when obtaining divorce papers:
- Forms may need customization for specific circumstances
- Financial disclosure forms require detailed information
- Child-related forms have specific requirements under Arkansas law
- Filing fees are separate from the cost of obtaining forms
- Notarization is required for many divorce documents
Individuals should verify that forms comply with current Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure and local court rules before filing.