The short answer
The Complaint for Divorce is the document that starts your case. It names you as the plaintiff and your spouse as the defendant, states that you meet Arkansas’s residency rule, names your grounds for divorce and says what you’re asking the court to do.
It’s the first form you’ll fill out, and everything else builds on it. Getting the grounds and the facts right here saves you from a rejected filing.
What it contains
- The parties. You (plaintiff) and your spouse (defendant)
- Residency. A statement that you or your spouse has lived in Arkansas at least 60 days
- Marriage facts. When you married, and when you separated if you did
- The grounds. The legal reasons for the divorce. See the grounds.
- Your children. Basic information about any minor child. Forgetting a child’s information is a common slip
- What you’re asking for. The divorce itself, plus what you want on property, support and custody
How to fill it out
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Gather your information
Marriage date, separation date, addresses, children’s details, and a list of assets and debts.
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Pick your grounds
Make sure it’s one Arkansas recognizes.
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Fill in each section
Use the official form or let ArkansasLegalNow build it from your answers. See the forms hub for what goes with it.
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File in the right county
File with the Circuit Clerk in the county where you or your spouse lives.
After you file
The clerk gives you a case number. Your spouse then needs to be notified, either by signing a waiver or through the sheriff or a process server, and the 30-day waiting period starts. See the full filing guide for every step.
Mistakes to avoid
- Listing grounds Arkansas doesn’t recognize. The judge may reject the case.
- Wrong separation date. This matters especially if you’re using 18 months of separation.
- Leaving out a child.
- Signing before a notary is present, if your form needs notarizing.
Common questions
Who is the plaintiff and who is the defendant?
The plaintiff is the spouse who files. The defendant is the other spouse.
Do I need a lawyer to file a Complaint for Divorce?
Not for a straightforward case. You can file on your own. For safety concerns, significant assets or retirement accounts, talk to an attorney.
Where do I file it?
With the Circuit Clerk in the county where you or your spouse lives.
How much does it cost to file?
$165 on paper or $185 to e-file. See the cost guide.
When you need a lawyer
Talk to an attorney, or call Legal Aid if money is tight, if there’s a history of violence, a business, retirement accounts to divide, or a spouse you can’t find.
Sources
- Ark. Code Ann. § 9-12-301 and § 9-12-307
- Arkansas Judiciary court forms