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Theft vs. Burglary in Arkansas: Understanding the Difference

  Theft and burglary are often mentioned together, but under Arkansas law, they are distinct criminal offenses. Understanding that distinction matters because the allegations, elements prosecutors must establish, and potential consequences can differ significantly. If you are facing either type of charge, speaking with a lawyer familiar with criminal law in Jonesboro, AR and Northeast Arkansas can help you understand the specific allegations and your legal options. What Is Theft in Arkansas? Under Arkansas Code § 5-36-103, theft of property generally involves knowingly taking or exercising unauthorized control over another person's property—or obtaining it by deception or threat—with the purpose of depriving the owner of it. In simpler terms, a theft allegation focuses primarily on property and the intent to deprive its owner of it . Examples could include allegations involving: taking merchandise without paying; taking another person's personal property; obtaining property th...
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What Happens to Custody When a Parent Remarries?

  Remarriage can be an exciting new chapter, but when children and an existing custody arrangement are involved, it can also raise important legal questions. Parents may wonder whether getting remarried automatically affects custody, whether a new stepparent matters to the court, or whether the other parent can request a custody change. In Arkansas, remarriage does not automatically change an existing child custody order . When a parent asks a court to modify custody, Arkansas courts generally require a material change in circumstances and then consider whether modification is in the child's best interests. Custody decisions are highly fact-specific. If remarriage is creating questions about your parenting arrangement, consulting a Custody Lawyer in Jonesboro, AR can help you understand how Arkansas family law may apply to your particular circumstances. Does Remarriage Automatically Change Child Custody? Generally, no. Getting married again does not by itself rewrite an existing c...
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Your Car Wreck Happened Weeks Ago—Can You Still Take Legal Action?

  A car wreck can leave you dealing with medical appointments, vehicle repairs, missed work, and insurance calls. It is understandable if legal action is not the first thing on your mind. But what if your car wreck in Paragould, AR happened several weeks ago? Is it already too late to seek compensation? Not necessarily. In Arkansas, the deadline for filing a lawsuit depends on the type of claim and circumstances involved. Benson Law Firm's car-wreck information notes that personal injury and vehicle-damage lawsuits may generally be subject to a three-year limitation period. However, waiting simply because you believe you have plenty of time can create unnecessary risks. Does Waiting Several Weeks Mean You Lost Your Claim? Not automatically. A claim may still be possible even if several weeks have passed since the accident. However, important evidence can become harder to obtain as time goes on. Photos may be lost, vehicle damage may be repaired, witnesses may become difficult to ...
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What Should You Do Before Telling Your Spouse You Want a Divorce in Arkansas?

  Deciding to end a marriage is a major personal and legal decision. For many people, the hardest part is not filing for divorce—it is deciding what to do before telling their spouse they want a divorce . If you are considering divorce in Arkansas, taking a few practical steps before having that conversation may help you make more informed decisions about your finances, children, property, and next steps. Whether you are only beginning to consider divorce or believe separation is likely, speaking with a qualified divorce Paragould AR attorney before making major decisions can help you understand your legal options and potential concerns. 1. Take Time to Understand Your Situation Before announcing that you want a divorce, take an honest look at your circumstances. Consider: How long have you been married? Do you and your spouse have children? What property do you own together? What debts or financial obligations do you share? Are there separate assets that you brought into the marr...
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