About Faulkner County

Faulkner County is located in the heart of Arkansas, positioned within the Arkansas River Valley region of the state's central corridor. Covering approximately 647 square miles, the county encompasses a diverse landscape of rolling hills, river bottomlands, and the foothills of the Ouachita Mountains. The county is traversed by the Arkansas River to the south and is home to several lakes and natural areas that make it attractive to outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Its central location places it within easy reach of Little Rock, making it one of the more strategically positioned counties in the Natural State. With a population of approximately 123,498 residents, Faulkner County is one of Arkansas's faster-growing counties, driven largely by its proximity to the state capital and its reputation as a desirable place to live and raise a family. Conway, the county seat, serves as the cultural, commercial, and governmental hub of Faulkner County. Often referred to as the 'City of Colleges,' Conway is home to three institutions of higher education: the University of Central Arkansas, Hendrix College, and Central Baptist College. This strong academic presence gives the city a youthful energy and supports a well-educated workforce. The economy of Faulkner County is diverse and growing, anchored by education, healthcare, retail, and manufacturing sectors. Conway's role as a regional commercial center means that major retailers, healthcare providers, and employers have established significant operations there. The county has also attracted technology and logistics companies in recent years, reflecting broader economic diversification. Agriculture remains a presence in the more rural parts of the county, with poultry, soybeans, and cattle contributing to the local economy. The combination of affordable housing, strong schools, and economic opportunity has made Faulkner County one of the most sought-after communities in Arkansas for both families and businesses.

Practice Areas in Faulkner County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
Learn More ›
DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
Learn More ›
Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
Learn More ›
Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
Learn More ›
Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
Learn More ›
Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
Learn More ›

Courts in Faulkner County

Faulkner County is served by several courts that handle a wide range of legal matters. The Faulkner County Circuit Court, located at the Faulkner County Courthouse at 801 Locust Street in Conway, is the court of general jurisdiction and handles serious criminal cases (felonies), civil matters involving disputes over $5,000, domestic relations cases including divorce and child custody, and probate matters such as wills and estates. The Faulkner County District Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, small claims disputes up to $5,000, and civil cases involving lesser amounts. The 20th Judicial Circuit of Arkansas encompasses Faulkner County, and the circuit judges preside over the most complex and serious cases in the jurisdiction. Additionally, the City of Conway maintains a municipal court that addresses city ordinance violations and minor traffic infractions occurring within city limits.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Faulkner County

Most legal matters in Faulkner County are handled through the Arkansas state court system, including family law, state criminal charges, property disputes, and contract issues governed by Arkansas law. However, when a legal matter involves a federal question — such as constitutional rights violations, federal criminal charges, immigration, bankruptcy, or disputes between citizens of different states exceeding $75,000 — the case falls under the jurisdiction of the federal courts. Faulkner County residents who have federal cases will typically appear before the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Arkansas, which is located in Little Rock and is the closest federal court with jurisdiction over the county. Understanding whether your matter belongs in state or federal court is an important first step, and an experienced attorney can help determine the proper venue for your specific situation.

Common Legal Situations in Faulkner County

Faulkner County residents encounter a broad range of legal issues that reflect the county's growing population and mix of urban and rural characteristics. Traffic violations and DWI charges are among the most frequently occurring legal matters, particularly along the busy Interstate 40 corridor and Highway 64, which see heavy commuter and commercial traffic. Family law matters — including divorce, child custody modifications, child support disputes, and adoptions — are common given the county's large and growing family demographic. The presence of major employers and a large student population in Conway also generates employment disputes, landlord-tenant conflicts, and lease disagreements. Criminal defense matters ranging from misdemeanor drug charges to more serious felony allegations are handled regularly in the circuit court. Estate planning and probate matters are increasingly common as the county's population ages, and small business owners frequently seek assistance with contract disputes and business formation.

Why Go To Court for Faulkner County Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is an excellent choice for Faulkner County residents seeking legal representation because the firm combines local knowledge with a broad network of experienced attorneys who understand Arkansas law and the nuances of Faulkner County's courts. Residents can access the Go To Court 24/7 free legal hotline at any time to get answers to urgent legal questions without waiting for business hours. The firm is committed to transparency in pricing, with fixed-fee services coming soon that will give clients greater certainty about the cost of their legal matter from the outset. Whether you are facing a traffic charge, a family law dispute, or a criminal matter, the Go To Court team is ready to provide knowledgeable, accessible, and professional legal assistance.

Free — available now

In Faulkner County and have a legal question?

Call our free hotline right now — available 24/7, no obligation.

Call free now

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I receive a traffic ticket in Faulkner County?

If you receive a traffic ticket in Faulkner County, you generally have the option to pay the fine, which is treated as an admission of the violation, or to contest the ticket in the Faulkner County District Court or Conway Municipal Court depending on where the infraction occurred. Contesting a ticket may help you avoid points on your driver's license and potential increases in your insurance premiums. An attorney familiar with Faulkner County traffic courts can advise you on whether fighting the citation is in your best interest.

How does child custody work in Faulkner County divorce cases?

In Faulkner County, child custody matters are decided by the Faulkner County Circuit Court based on the best interests of the child, taking into account factors such as each parent's relationship with the child, stability of the home environment, and the child's own preferences if they are of sufficient age. Arkansas courts may award joint custody, sole custody, or a combination of legal and physical custody arrangements depending on the circumstances. It is strongly advisable to work with a family law attorney to ensure your parental rights are protected throughout the process.

What are the penalties for a first-time DWI in Faulkner County, Arkansas?

A first-time DWI conviction in Arkansas carries penalties that can include a fine of up to $1,000, a driver's license suspension of up to six months, mandatory completion of an alcohol education program, and up to one year in jail, though jail time for a first offense is often suspended or served as a shorter period. The specific outcome depends heavily on the circumstances of the arrest, including your blood alcohol content and whether any aggravating factors were present. Consulting with a criminal defense attorney as early as possible can significantly affect the outcome of your case.

Can I file a small claims case in Faulkner County, and what is the limit?

Yes, Faulkner County residents can file small claims cases in the Faulkner County District Court for disputes involving amounts up to $5,000, making it a practical option for resolving issues like unpaid debts, security deposit disputes, or minor contract disagreements without the expense of full civil litigation. The small claims process is designed to be accessible to people without legal representation, though having an attorney review your case beforehand can help you present your claim more effectively. Filing fees apply, and you will need to properly serve the other party with notice of the claim.

Do I need a lawyer for a probate matter in Faulkner County?

While Arkansas law does not strictly require an attorney to open a probate estate in Faulkner County Circuit Court, the probate process involves complex legal filings, deadlines, and requirements that can be difficult to navigate without professional guidance, especially when an estate involves real property, significant assets, or potential disputes among heirs. An attorney can help ensure the estate is administered correctly, creditors are properly addressed, and assets are distributed in accordance with the decedent's wishes or Arkansas intestacy law. Mistakes in the probate process can result in personal liability for the executor, making legal assistance a wise investment.

Neighbouring Counties

Faulkner County is bordered by Conway County to the north, Van Buren County to the northwest, Perry County to the west, Saline County to the south, Pulaski County to the southeast, Lonoke County to the east, and Cleburne County to the northeast.