Divorce in Arkansas: Laws, Requirements, and Process
A complete guide to getting a divorce in Arkansas. Covers grounds, residency requirements, property division, alimony, child custody, and what to expect from the process.
Data last updated: Apr 16, 2026Key Takeaways
- Property division: Equitable distribution.
- Residency requirement: 60 days in the state before filing; 3 months before decree is entered.
- Waiting period: 30 days from filing.
- Filing fee: $150 - $200.
Grounds for Divorce
Arkansas allows no-fault divorce. The no-fault ground is: Living separate and apart for 18 continuous months.
Fault-Based Grounds
Arkansas also recognizes these fault-based grounds for divorce:
- Adultery
- Cruelty
- Habitual drunkenness for one year
- Conviction of a felony or other infamous crime
- Incurable insanity for three years
- Living separate and apart without cohabitation for 18 months
- Personal indignities
Residency Requirements
60 days in the state before filing; 3 months before decree is entered.
Property Division
Arkansas is an equitable distribution state. Arkansas follows equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly, considering factors including the length of the marriage, the age and health of the parties, the occupation and earning capacity of each spouse, and the contribution of each party to the acquisition of marital property.
Alimony / Spousal Support
Arkansas courts may award alimony considering the financial needs of the requesting spouse, the other spouse's ability to pay, the length of the marriage, and the property each party received. Alimony may be temporary, rehabilitative, or permanent.
Child Custody
Arkansas courts determine custody based on the best interest of the child. The court considers the child's wishes (if of sufficient age), the relationship between the child and each parent, and the mental and physical health of all parties involved.
Child Support
Arkansas uses the income shares model. Child support is calculated using both parents' incomes and the number of children, with adjustments for health insurance, childcare, and special needs.
Filing Fee
The filing fee for divorce in Arkansas is $150 - $200. Fee waivers may be available for those who cannot afford to pay.
Arkansas court divorce resources
Related Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
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What are the grounds for divorce in Arkansas?
Arkansas allows no-fault divorce when spouses have lived separate and apart for 18 continuous months. The state also recognizes fault-based grounds such as adultery, cruelty, habitual drunkenness, felony conviction, incurable insanity, and personal indignities.
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How long do you have to live in Arkansas to file for divorce?
At least one spouse must have been a resident of Arkansas for at least 60 days before filing. The divorce decree cannot be entered until at least 3 months after the filing date.
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How is property divided in an Arkansas divorce?
Arkansas uses equitable distribution. Courts divide marital property fairly but not necessarily equally, considering factors like each spouse's contributions, the length of the marriage, and each party's earning capacity.
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How long does a divorce take in Arkansas?
Arkansas has a 30-day waiting period after filing. Uncontested divorces can take approximately 30 to 90 days. Contested cases, or those requiring the 18-month separation period, can take significantly longer.