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Arkansas Circuit Courts Circuit Courts have general jurisdiction over all civil and criminal cases, but typically only handle cases that are beyond the limited jurisdiction of other courts.
Criminal cases heard by Circuit Courts include felonies, some misdemeanors and lesser-included offenses.
Civil cases heard by Circuit Courts include general civil claims for more than $5000 and civil equity claims.
Circuit Courts also handle domestic relations, juvenile, probate and mental health cases, including divorce, child abuse and neglect, guardianships, civil commitments and the administration of estates. Arkansas District Courts District Courts have jurisdiction over certain types of civil and criminal cases.
Criminal cases heard by District Courts include most types of misdemeanors and preliminary hearings for all types of criminal cases. Little Rock District Court has a Traffic Court division that handles all traffic offenses committed within city limits. In areas without District Courts, a City Court may handle misdemeanors and preliminary hearings.
Each District Court has a Small Claims division for most general civil claims for less than $5000. Arkansas City Courts City Courts have similar jurisdiction to District Courts, including misdemeanor criminal cases and felony preliminary hearings, but likely do not offer a Small Claims division.
City Courts operate in less-populated areas that are not served by District Courts.
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