Child Custody Attorneys in Arkansas

Few legal matters are as emotional or life-changing as a child custody case. When your relationship with your children is at stake, you need more than legal representation—you need clear guidance, steady support, and an advocate who understands both Arkansas law and the human side of custody disputes.

At Turner & Rasch LLP, we help parents navigate child custody and visitation matters throughout Arkansas with compassion, transparency, and strength. Our goal is simple: protect your children, protect your parental rights, and ensure you always understand what is happening in your case. We regularly handle high-conflict custody cases all over Arkansas.

Understanding Child Custody in Arkansas

Arkansas courts decide child custody based on the best interests of the child. This legal standard considers a wide range of factors, including stability, safety, parental involvement, and the ability of each parent to meet the child’s emotional and physical needs.

Child custody cases may arise during:

  • Divorce proceedings

  • Paternity actions

  • Custody modifications

  • Relocation disputes

  • High-conflict co-parenting situations

Whether your case is contested or uncontested, having experienced legal counsel can make a significant difference in both the outcome and your peace of mind.

Types of Child Custody in Arkansas

Arkansas recognizes two main forms of custody:

  • Legal custody – decision-making authority regarding education, medical care, and major life choices

  • Physical custody – where the child primarily lives

Custody (whether legal or physical) may be joint or primary, depending on what best serves the child. While Arkansas law expresses a preference for joint custody when appropriate, it is not automatic and may not be suitable in all situations. We are ready to fight for you and what you believe is in the best interest of your child.

Common Issues in Child Custody Cases

Child custody disputes often involve complex and emotionally charged issues, including:

  • Disagreements over parenting time and visitation schedules

  • Allegations of instability, substance abuse, or unsafe environments

  • Communication breakdowns between parents

  • Relocation requests

  • Schooling and extracurricular decisions

At Turner & Rasch LLP, we help clients navigate these challenges strategically and thoughtfully, always keeping the child’s best interests at the center of the case.

How Turner & Rasch LLP Helps in Child Custody Cases

We understand that custody cases are not just legal disputes—they are deeply personal. Our attorneys are committed to providing clear information, honest advice, and strong advocacy at every stage.

When you work with our firm, you can expect:

  • A clear explanation of your rights and options under Arkansas custody law

  • Thoughtful guidance through negotiations, mediation, or litigation

  • Well-crafted parenting plans tailored to your family’s needs

  • Preparation for hearings and court appearances

  • Ongoing communication so you are never left guessing about your case

We believe informed clients make better decisions, and we prioritize keeping you educated and empowered throughout the process.

Protecting Children During Difficult Times

Custody disputes can be especially difficult for children. Our attorneys work to minimize unnecessary conflict whenever possible while still advocating firmly for our clients. We focus on creating custody arrangements that promote:

  • Stability and consistency

  • Healthy co-parenting when possible

  • Clear expectations for both parents

  • Long-term solutions that reduce future disputes

When litigation is necessary, we are prepared to advocate forcefully on your behalf in court.

Serving Families in Little Rock and Across Arkansas

Based in Little Rock, Turner & Rasch LLP represents parents throughout Central Arkansas and beyond in child custody and visitation matters. Our all-women legal team brings experience, empathy, and dedication to every case we handle.

Speak With an Arkansas Child Custody Lawyer Today

If you are facing a child custody dispute—or anticipate one—early legal guidance can be critical. You deserve an attorney who will listen, explain your options clearly, and fight to protect what matters most.

Contact Turner & Rasch LLP today to schedule a confidential consultation and learn how we can help you navigate your child custody case with confidence and care.

Legal Disclaimer

The information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal advice. The laws governing family law matters in Arkansas are complex and subject to change, and the application of the law depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each case.

Reviewing, accessing, or using this website does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Turner & Rasch LLP. An attorney–client relationship is only formed through a written engagement agreement signed by both the client and the firm after a conflict-of-interest check has been completed.

Visitors should not act or refrain from acting based on information contained on this website without first seeking legal advice from a qualified attorney licensed in their jurisdiction.

Any communication submitted through this website, including through contact forms or email links, does not create an attorney–client relationship and may not be treated as confidential until such a relationship has been formally established.

This disclaimer is intended to comply with the Arkansas Rules of Professional Conduct and other applicable ethical requirements.

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FAQs

How is child custody determined in Arkansas?

Arkansas courts determine child custody based on the best interests of the child. Judges consider many factors, including:

  • Each parent’s ability to provide a stable home

  • The child’s relationship with each parent

  • Each parent’s work schedule and availability

  • The child’s school and community ties

  • Each parent’s location relative to the child’s school

  • Any history of domestic violence or substance abuse

Arkansas does not automatically favor mothers or fathers—custody decisions are gender-neutral.

What types of child custody are recognized in Arkansas?

Arkansas recognizes two primary types of custody:

  • Legal custody – the right to make major decisions for the child

  • Physical custody – where the child lives

Custody may be sole or joint, depending on what the court determines is in the child’s best interests.

Does Arkansas favor joint custody?

Yes. Arkansas law expresses a preference for joint custody when it is workable and serves the child’s best interests. However, joint custody is not automatic and may not be appropriate in cases of abuse, high-conflict situations, or where parents cannot effectively co-parent, amongst other reasons.

Can parents agree on child custody without going to court?

Yes. Parents can reach an agreement on child custody and visitation through negotiation or mediation. In uncontested cases, the court typically approves custody agreements as long as they meet legal standards and serve the child’s best interests.

How is child support calculated in Arkansas?

Arkansas child support is calculated using statutory guidelines based primarily on the paying parent’s income. Courts may also consider:

  • Health insurance premiums

  • Childcare expenses

  • Extraordinary medical or educational costs

  • Shared or joint custody arrangements

Accurate income disclosure is essential to ensure proper calculation.

Is there a minimum child support amount in Arkansas?

Arkansas guidelines establish minimum support obligations, even for lower-income parents. Courts may deviate from guideline amounts when justified by the circumstances, but any deviation must be approved by the judge.

How long does child support last in Arkansas?

In most cases, child support continues until the child turns 18 or graduates from high school, whichever occurs later. Support may extend longer for children with disabilities or special needs.

Can child support be modified in Arkansas?

Yes. Either parent may request a child support modification if there has been a material change in circumstances, such as:

  • Job loss or significant income change

  • Change in custody or parenting time

  • Increased medical or educational expenses

Modifications must be approved by the court to be enforceable.

What happens if child support is not paid?

Failure to pay court-ordered child support can result in serious consequences, including:

  • Wage garnishment

  • Tax refund interception

  • Driver’s license suspension

  • Contempt of court proceedings

Enforcement actions are taken seriously by Arkansas courts.

Can child custody be changed after a divorce?

Yes. Child custody modifications may be granted if there is a material change in circumstances and the modification is in the child’s best interests. Common reasons include:

  • Relocation

  • Ongoing conflict or co-parenting issues

  • Changes affecting the child’s safety or stability

Do I need a lawyer for child custody or child support issues in Arkansas?

While not legally required, working with an experienced family law attorney can help ensure custody and support arrangements are properly structured, enforceable, and aligned with Arkansas law. This is especially important in contested cases or when modifications are needed.

The attorneys at Turner & Rasch LLP assist clients throughout Little Rock and surrounding areas with child custody, visitation, and child support matters—both as part of divorce cases and as standalone issues.