Restraining Orders

To file for an order of protection in Arkansas, go to the county courthouse in the county where you live, where the abuse took place, or where the abuser may be served (given paperwork related to the case).¹  Find the civil clerk of court and ask for a petition for an order of protection. You can find a list of courts on the AR Courthouse Locations page.  You can also find links to the forms online by going to AR Download Court Forms.

You may also be able to obtain these forms by calling a local domestic violence organization or legal aid office.  Most domestic violence prevention organizations can provide support for you while you fill out these papers.  Click on the Places that Help page for a list of state and local programs and legal resources. 

Tell the civil clerk of court that you want to file a petition for an order of protection. If you are in immediate danger, tell the clerk that you also want a temporary (ex-parte) order of protection.

¹ Ark. Code § 9-15-201(b)