Lonoke County Divorce Records

What Are Lonoke County Divorce Records?

Divorce records in Lonoke County are official legal documents that provide documentation of the dissolution of marriage between two individuals. These records are maintained pursuant to Arkansas Code § 9-12-301, which establishes the legal grounds for divorce in the state. These records are processed and maintained by the Lonoke County Circuit Court.

Divorce records typically consist of several components:

• Petition for divorce (initial filing)
• Summons and proof of service
• Response from the defendant spouse
• Financial affidavits and property settlements
• Child custody and support arrangements (if applicable)
• Final decree of divorce

These documents serve multiple important purposes:

• Legal proof of marital status change
• Documentation required for remarriage
• Evidence for name change processes
• Verification for Social Security benefits
• Supporting documentation for loan applications
• Required paperwork for immigration matters

The Lonoke County Circuit Court maintains these records as part of its official court functions. Under Arkansas law, divorce proceedings fall under the jurisdiction of the circuit courts, which have exclusive authority to grant divorces and maintain the associated records.

Are Lonoke County Divorce Records Public?

Divorce records in Lonoke County maintain a complex status regarding public accessibility. Generally, court divorce case files are considered public records under the Arkansas Freedom of Information Act § 25-19-105, which establishes the public's right to access government records. However, this access is subject to important limitations and exceptions.

The public accessibility of divorce records in Lonoke County is structured as follows:

• Court Divorce Case Files: Basic case information such as party names, case numbers, and filing dates are typically available to the public through the Arkansas Judiciary's online case information system. However, access to detailed documents within these files may be restricted.

• Sensitive Information: Pursuant to Arkansas Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 19, certain sensitive information within divorce records may be redacted or restricted, including:

  • Social Security numbers
  • Financial account numbers
  • Names of minor children
  • Medical information
  • Victim information in cases involving domestic violence

• Sealed Records: In certain circumstances, the court may order divorce records to be sealed completely from public view, particularly when:

  • The case involves allegations of domestic abuse
  • The safety of a party or child may be compromised
  • The case contains sensitive financial information
  • The best interests of minor children require confidentiality

• Certified Divorce Certificates: While basic divorce record information may be publicly accessible, certified divorce certificates with official verification are typically restricted to:

  • Parties named in the divorce
  • Legal representatives of the parties
  • Individuals with a demonstrable legal interest

Individuals seeking access to divorce records should be aware that while the records may be technically "public," practical access often requires proper identification and may be subject to review by court personnel to ensure compliance with privacy protections.

How To Find a Divorce Record In Lonoke County in 2026

Members of the public seeking divorce records in Lonoke County may utilize several methods to locate these documents. The primary resources for obtaining divorce records include:

1. Visit the Lonoke County Circuit Clerk's Office in person:

   • Bring identification and any relevant case information
   • Complete a records request form
   • Pay applicable search and copy fees

   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk
   301 N. Center Street
   Lonoke, AR 72086
   (501) 676-2368
   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk

2. Submit a written request by mail:

   • Include a detailed description of the records sought
   • Provide case numbers if available
   • Include a self-addressed stamped envelope
   • Enclose payment for applicable fees
   • Mail to the Circuit Clerk's office address above

3. Access the Arkansas Judiciary's online case information system:

   • Visit the Arkansas Judiciary's CourtConnect
   • Search by party name, case number, or filing date
   • Note that only basic case information may be available online

4. Request records from the Arkansas Department of Health Vital Records:

   • For certified divorce certificates (not full court files)
   • Complete the official vital records request form
   • Provide proper identification and establish eligibility
   • Pay the required certificate fee

   Arkansas Department of Health Vital Records
   4815 W. Markham Street, Slot 44
   Little Rock, AR 72205
   (501) 661-2336
   Arkansas Department of Health

When requesting records, individuals should be prepared to provide:

• Full names of both parties to the divorce
• Approximate date of divorce filing or finalization
• Case number (if known)
• Personal identification

Standard processing times for divorce record requests typically range from 1-3 business days for in-person requests to 2-4 weeks for mail requests, depending on current workload and staffing levels.

How To Look Up Divorce Records in Lonoke County Online?

Lonoke County residents and interested parties may access divorce records online through several digital platforms maintained by state and county authorities. The Arkansas Judiciary provides comprehensive online resources for accessing court records, including divorce proceedings.

To search for divorce records online:

1. Access the Arkansas Judiciary's Search ARCourts system:

   • Visit the Arkansas Judiciary's online case search portal
   • Create a user account if you don't already have one
   • Select "Circuit Court - Domestic Relations" as the case category
   • Enter search criteria such as party names or case numbers
   • Review the list of matching cases

2. Use the CourtConnect system for additional information:

   • Navigate to the Arkansas Judiciary's CourtConnect system
   • Search by party name, case number, or attorney
   • Access case summaries and docket information
   • Note that document images may not be available for all cases

3. Check the Lonoke County Circuit Clerk's website:

   • Visit the Lonoke County Circuit Clerk's official website
   • Look for the "Court Records" or "Case Search" section
   • Follow the instructions for accessing the county's online records system

When searching online, users should be aware of several important considerations:

• Not all documents within a divorce case file may be available online
• Sensitive information is typically redacted from online records
• Older records may not be digitized and available electronically
• Some records may require in-person requests at the courthouse
• Online access may be limited to basic case information rather than full document images

The online systems typically provide 24/7 access to basic case information, though system maintenance may occasionally limit availability. Users experiencing technical difficulties may contact the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts for assistance with the state's online case management systems.

How To Find Divorce Records for Free In Lonoke County?

Members of the public seeking no-cost access to divorce records in Lonoke County have several options available, though free access typically provides limited information compared to paid services. The following methods offer free or low-cost access to divorce record information:

1. Use public access terminals at the courthouse:

   • Visit the Lonoke County Circuit Clerk's office during regular business hours
   • Request to use the public access computer terminals
   • Search for cases by party name or case number
   • View basic case information at no charge
   • Note that printing documents will incur copy fees

   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk
   301 N. Center Street
   Lonoke, AR 72086
   (501) 676-2368
   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

2. Access the Arkansas Judiciary's online case information system:

   • The Arkansas Judiciary's CourtConnect provides free basic case information
   • Search by party name or case number
   • View case status, party information, and hearing dates
   • Document images may not be available without fees

3. Visit the Lonoke County Law Library:

   • Located within the Lonoke County Courthouse
   • Access public records research materials
   • Obtain assistance from law library staff
   • Use reference materials to locate case information

4. Consult public notices in local newspapers:

   • Divorce proceedings are sometimes published in the legal notices section
   • Check the Lonoke Democrat or other local publications
   • Public libraries maintain archives of local newspapers

While these methods provide free access to basic divorce record information, users should be aware of certain limitations:

• Detailed documents typically require payment of copy fees
• Certified copies always require payment of certification fees
• Staff assistance for extensive searches may not be available without cost
• Older records may require special handling and associated fees
• Records that have been sealed or redacted will not be accessible

Pursuant to Arkansas Code § 21-6-406, circuit clerks are authorized to charge reasonable fees for copies of public records, though viewing records on-site is typically available at no cost.

What's Included in a Divorce Records In Lonoke County

Divorce records in Lonoke County contain comprehensive documentation of the entire divorce proceeding from initiation to final judgment. These records are maintained pursuant to Arkansas Code § 9-12-306, which establishes requirements for divorce decrees in Arkansas.

A complete divorce record file typically includes:

1. Initial Filings:

   • Petition for divorce (complaint)
   • Summons and proof of service
   • Temporary orders for support, custody, or property
   • Financial affidavits from both parties

2. Procedural Documents:

   • Responses and counterclaims
   • Motions filed by either party
   • Court orders throughout the proceedings
   • Hearing notices and continuances
   • Discovery documents (may be sealed)

3. Settlement Documents:

   • Property settlement agreements
   • Child custody and visitation arrangements
   • Child support calculations and orders
   • Spousal support/alimony determinations
   • Retirement and pension division plans

4. Final Judgment:

   • Decree of divorce (final judgment)
   • Findings of fact and conclusions of law
   • Judge's signature and date of finalization
   • Court seal and certification

5. Post-Judgment Filings (if applicable):

   • Modifications to custody, support, or other terms
   • Enforcement actions
   • Appeals or challenges to the judgment
   • Name change orders

The level of detail in divorce records varies based on whether the divorce was contested or uncontested:

• Uncontested divorces typically have simpler files with fewer documents, often containing just the petition, waiver of service, settlement agreement, and final decree.

• Contested divorces generally have more extensive files that may include transcripts of hearings, expert witness testimony, detailed financial disclosures, and multiple motions and counter-motions.

Certain sensitive information may be redacted from publicly accessible versions of these records, including:

• Social Security numbers
• Financial account numbers
• Minor children's identifying information
• Victim information in cases involving domestic violence
• Medical and mental health records

The Arkansas Judiciary maintains these records in accordance with state record retention schedules, which typically require permanent preservation of divorce decrees and judgments.

How To Get Proof of Divorce In Lonoke County?

Individuals seeking official proof of divorce in Lonoke County have several options for obtaining certified documentation. The type of proof needed often depends on the purpose for which it will be used, such as remarriage, name changes, or legal proceedings.

To obtain official proof of divorce:

1. Request a certified copy of the divorce decree from the Lonoke County Circuit Clerk:

   • Visit the clerk's office in person with valid photo identification
   • Complete a records request form specifying the case number (if known)
   • Pay the certification fee (currently $10.00 per document plus $0.25 per page)
   • Receive the certified copy with the court's official seal

   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk
   301 N. Center Street
   Lonoke, AR 72086
   (501) 676-2368
   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk

2. Request a certified divorce certificate from the Arkansas Department of Health:

   • Complete the Vital Records Request Form
   • Provide proper identification and proof of eligibility
   • Submit the form with the required fee ($10.00 for the first copy, $8.00 for each additional copy)
   • Allow 4-6 weeks for processing by mail or request expedited service

   Arkansas Department of Health Vital Records
   4815 W. Markham Street, Slot 44
   Little Rock, AR 72205
   (501) 661-2336
   Arkansas Department of Health

3. Submit a written request by mail to the Circuit Clerk:

   • Include a detailed letter specifying the names of both parties, date of divorce, and case number (if known)
   • Enclose a copy of your photo identification
   • Include a self-addressed stamped envelope
   • Send a money order or cashier's check for the appropriate fees
   • Mail to the Circuit Clerk's office address listed above

For expedited service, individuals may:

• Request priority processing for an additional fee
• Use a third-party document retrieval service authorized to work with the courts
• Employ an attorney to obtain the records on their behalf

The certified documents provided as proof of divorce will contain:

• Names of both parties to the divorce
• Date the divorce was granted
• Case number
• County where the divorce was finalized
• Judge's signature
• Official court seal or certification

Pursuant to Arkansas Code § 16-46-101, these certified copies are legally recognized as authentic proof of divorce and are acceptable for most legal and administrative purposes.

Can a Divorce Be Confidential In Lonoke County?

Divorce proceedings in Lonoke County are generally matters of public record; however, under certain circumstances, aspects of divorce cases may be kept confidential. Arkansas law provides several mechanisms for protecting sensitive information within divorce records while balancing the public's right to access court records.

Confidentiality in divorce proceedings may be established through:

1. Sealing of Records: Pursuant to Arkansas Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 19, a judge may order divorce records sealed from public view when:

   • The case involves allegations of domestic violence
   • Minor children's best interests require confidentiality
   • Sensitive financial or proprietary business information is involved
   • Publication would pose a serious threat to personal safety
   • Other compelling privacy interests outweigh the public interest in access

2. Redaction of Sensitive Information: Even when records remain public, certain information is routinely redacted, including:

   • Social Security numbers
   • Financial account numbers
   • Dates of birth
   • Names of minor children
   • Medical and mental health information
   • Victim information in cases involving abuse

3. Protective Orders: During proceedings, either party may request protective orders under Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure Rule 26(c) to limit disclosure of certain information during discovery or in court filings.

4. Confidential Hearings: In exceptional circumstances, the court may conduct certain hearings in private, particularly when:

   • Child testimony is involved
   • Domestic violence issues are being addressed
   • Sensitive mental health matters are being discussed

To request confidentiality in divorce proceedings:

1. File a motion with the Lonoke County Circuit Court requesting sealing of records or specific confidentiality protections
2. Clearly articulate the legal basis and specific facts supporting the need for confidentiality
3. Be prepared to demonstrate that the privacy interest outweighs the public interest in access
4. Submit a proposed order specifying exactly what information should be protected

It is important to note that complete confidentiality of an entire divorce case is rare and generally reserved for extraordinary circumstances. More commonly, specific sensitive documents or information within the case file may be protected while basic case information remains public.

Parties seeking confidentiality should consult with an attorney experienced in family law matters to properly navigate these complex legal considerations.

How Long Does a Divorce Take In Lonoke County?

The duration of divorce proceedings in Lonoke County varies significantly based on several key factors. Under Arkansas law, specifically Arkansas Code § 9-12-307, there is a mandatory waiting period before a divorce can be finalized.

The timeline for divorce proceedings typically follows these general parameters:

1. Uncontested Divorces:

   • Minimum timeframe: 30 days from filing (mandatory waiting period)
   • Typical completion time: 60-90 days
   • Factors affecting timeline:
     • Court calendar and scheduling
     • Completeness of initial paperwork
     • Prompt submission of settlement agreement
     • Judge's review and approval process

2. Contested Divorces:

   • Minimum timeframe: 30 days from filing
   • Typical completion time: 6-18 months
   • Factors affecting timeline:
     • Complexity of assets and debts to divide
     • Child custody and support disputes
     • Discovery process duration
     • Court calendar congestion
     • Settlement negotiations
     • Trial scheduling if settlement fails

3. Divorces Involving Complex Issues:

   • High-value or complex asset division: 12-24+ months
   • Business valuation requirements: additional 3-6 months
   • Interstate or international elements: additional 3-12 months
   • Child custody evaluations: additional 3-6 months

According to data from the Arkansas Administrative Office of the Courts, the average time to disposition for divorce cases in Arkansas circuit courts is approximately:

• Uncontested divorces: 3-4 months
• Contested divorces with settlement: 8-10 months
• Fully litigated contested divorces: 12-18 months

Specific factors that may extend the timeline in Lonoke County include:

• Court congestion and judicial caseloads
• Attorney scheduling conflicts
• Requests for continuances by either party
• Complexity of financial discovery
• Need for expert witnesses or special masters
• Temporary orders and modification hearings
• Mediation or alternative dispute resolution attempts

Parties seeking to expedite their divorce should:

• Ensure all paperwork is complete and accurate upon filing
• Promptly respond to discovery requests
• Consider mediation to resolve disputed issues
• Have realistic expectations about property division and custody
• Be prepared with all financial documentation at the outset

The Lonoke County Circuit Court handles divorce cases as efficiently as possible while ensuring due process and thorough consideration of all relevant issues.

How Long Does Lonoke County Keep Divorce Records?

Lonoke County maintains divorce records according to a structured retention schedule established by the Arkansas Supreme Court and the Arkansas State Archives. These retention policies ensure the preservation of important legal documents while managing storage resources effectively.

The retention periods for divorce records in Lonoke County are as follows:

1. Final Divorce Decrees and Judgments:

   • Retention period: Permanent
   • Storage method: Original paper records maintained indefinitely; eventually microfilmed or digitized for long-term preservation
   • Authority: Arkansas Supreme Court Administrative Order No. 7

2. Case Files and Supporting Documentation:

   • Retention period: Minimum of 10 years after case closure
   • For cases involving minor children: Until the youngest child reaches age 25
   • For cases with ongoing financial obligations: Until all obligations are satisfied
   • Authority: Arkansas Judicial Records Retention Schedule

3. Exhibits and Evidence:

   • Retention period: Typically returned to parties after appeal period expires
   • If not claimed: Maintained for 1 year after final judgment
   • Special exhibits: May be preserved longer at judicial discretion
   • Authority: Arkansas Code § 16-46-401

4. Docket Sheets and Indices:

   • Retention period: Permanent
   • Purpose: Provides perpetual record of case existence and basic information
   • Storage: Both physical and electronic formats

5. Audio Recordings of Proceedings:

   • Retention period: 7 years from date of proceeding
   • Transcribed recordings: May be destroyed after verification of transcript
   • Authority: Arkansas Judicial Branch Records Retention Schedule

For historical divorce records (generally those over 50 years old), the county may transfer custody to the:

Arkansas State Archives
1 Capitol Mall
Little Rock, AR 72201
(501) 682-6900
Arkansas State Archives

The Arkansas State Archives maintains these historical records permanently and may make them available for genealogical and historical research purposes.

Individuals seeking older divorce records should be aware that:

• Records from the early-to-mid 20th century may be stored off-site
• Pre-1950 records may have been transferred to the State Archives
• Some very old records may exist only on microfilm or in bound volumes
• Retrieval of historical records may require additional time and special handling fees

The Lonoke County Circuit Clerk's office can provide guidance on locating older divorce records that may have been transferred to archival storage or the State Archives.

How To Get a Divorce In Lonoke County

Individuals seeking to dissolve a marriage in Lonoke County must follow specific procedures established by Arkansas law. The divorce process involves several key steps that must be completed in accordance with state statutes and local court rules.

To initiate a divorce in Lonoke County:

1. Establish Residency Requirements:

   • Either spouse must have been an Arkansas resident for at least 60 days before filing
   • The filing must occur in Arkansas for at least 3 months before the final judgment
   • These requirements are established by Arkansas Code § 9-12-307

2. Prepare and File Initial Documents:

   • Complaint for Divorce (petition)
   • Cover sheet for domestic relations cases
   • Summons for service on the other spouse
   • Information sheet for the Arkansas Child Support Registry (if children involved)
   • Financial affidavit (required in most cases)

   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk
   301 N. Center Street
   Lonoke, AR 72086
   (501) 676-2368
   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk

3. Pay Filing Fees:

   • Current filing fee: Approximately $165 (subject to change)
   • Additional fees for service of process
   • Fee waiver available for qualifying low-income individuals (in forma pauperis)

4. Serve the Other Spouse:

   • Through county sheriff's office
   • By certified mail with return receipt
   • By private process server
   • By warning order (publication) if spouse cannot be located
   • Spouse may sign an Entry of Appearance and Waiver of Service

5. Wait for Response or Default:

   • Spouse has 30 days to respond after being served
   • If no response, request default judgment
   • If contested, proceed to discovery and negotiation

6. Complete Mandatory Requirements:

   • Parenting education class (if minor children involved)
   • Mediation (may be required in contested cases)
   • Financial disclosure forms

7. Negotiate Settlement or Prepare for Trial:

   • Property division
   • Debt allocation
   • Child custody and visitation
   • Child support (calculated using Arkansas guidelines)
   • Alimony/spousal support (if applicable)

8. Attend Final Hearing:

   • Present settlement agreement for approval, or
   • Participate in contested trial before judge
   • Testimony will be required even in uncontested cases

9. Obtain Divorce Decree:

   • Judge signs final decree after hearing
   • Clerk enters decree into court records
   • Divorce becomes final when decree is entered

For assistance with the divorce process, individuals may contact:

Legal Aid of Arkansas
714 S. Main Street
Jonesboro, AR 72401
(800) 952-9243
Legal Aid of Arkansas

Arkansas Access to Justice Commission
1111 West 6th Street, Suite D
Little Rock, AR 72201
(501) 492-7174
Arkansas Access to Justice

How To Get Divorce Papers In Lonoke County

Individuals seeking to initiate divorce proceedings in Lonoke County have several options for obtaining the necessary divorce papers. These documents must comply with Arkansas law and local court requirements to be accepted for filing.

To obtain divorce papers in Lonoke County:

1. Visit the Lonoke County Circuit Clerk's Office:

   • Request divorce packet in person
   • Staff can provide basic forms but cannot offer legal advice
   • Pay nominal fee for forms (typically $5-10)

   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk
   301 N. Center Street
   Lonoke, AR 72086
   (501) 676-2368
   Lonoke County Circuit Clerk
   Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

2. Access Forms Through the Arkansas Judiciary Website:

   • Visit the Arkansas Judiciary's Self-Help Resources
   • Download standardized divorce forms approved for use statewide
   • Forms available include: