The Standing Order in Benton County, Arkansas, Divorce Cases

Benton County, Arkansas, has a “Standing Order of the Court” that applies to divorce cases. The express stated purpose of the Order is to “mandate the preservation of the status quo with either party having the right to a prompt hearing to have the Standing Order vacated or modified.” 

Many of the provisions of the Standing Order are common sense. Neither party may harass, threaten, or injure the other. Neither party may sell property without an agreement or judicial permission. Neither party may remove the children from Arkansas without permission from the judge, except for short vacations. Neither party may cancel insurance of any type, nor may they change cell phones, utilities, or other necessities of life without permission from the Court. These standing orders are designed to minimize disruption during the many changes that occur during the transition of a family breakup associated with divorce. The provisions of the Standing Order are serious and meaningful, and any violation of any term or provision of the Order could result in serious, adverse consequences, including even jail time. 

Benton County’s Standing Order is very similar to the Standing Order in neighboring Washington County, Arkansas.