Natural State Trial AttorneysNatural State Trial Attorneys2026-08-24T18:49:50Zhttps://www.catterlinlaw.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1605436/2026/03/cropped-Site-icon-32x32.pngOn Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[Razorback game day arrest survival guide: How to cheer without getting charged]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475822026-07-29T09:35:05Z2026-07-29T09:35:05Z Saturdays match the energy of a Razorbacks home game. Tailgates start early, fans pack the streets and excitement builds throughout the day. At the same time, police increase patrols across Fayetteville and game day arrests often rise along with the crowds. A celebration with friends could quickly turn into legal trouble if alcohol or emotions get out of control. Knowing which situations commonly lead to arrests may help you enjoy the game while lowering your legal risk.
Which game day charges could you face?
Several misdemeanor charges commonly arise on football weekends. One of the most frequent is public intoxication under Arkansas law. This applies when intoxication endangers you, another person or property or causes unreasonable disruption. A guilty verdict on this Class C misdemeanor charge could carry a jail term of as much as 30 days, a fine reaching $100 and the usual court fees.Other charges you could encounter include:
Disorderly conduct: Arguments, shoving or other disruptive behavior could result in this Class C misdemeanor.
Minor in possession: If you are under 21, alcohol in your body or under your control could support a charge, even if you are not holding a drink.
Fake ID possession: Officers may file this charge in addition to a minor in possession offense.
Open container or public urination: These violations often begin as citations, but they could lead to additional police contact.
Alcohol often plays a role in several of these offenses, which means one incident could result in multiple charges.
Where do arrests often happen?
Large crowds and increased police patrols make certain locations more likely to attract law enforcement attention. You could see a stronger police presence in areas such as:
Tailgating lots before kickoff
Dickson Street after the game
Stadium entrances and concourses
Walkways between parking areas and Razorback Stadium
Heavy foot traffic, crowded conditions and alcohol consumption may increase the likelihood of police encounters in these locations.
How could you reduce your legal risk?
Simple choices throughout the day could help you avoid unnecessary legal problems. You might consider eating before drinking, pacing your alcohol consumption and staying with friends who can help defuse tense situations. Planning a rideshare or choosing a designated driver before kickoff could also make the trip home much easier.If an officer stops you, remaining calm and speaking respectfully may help keep the encounter from becoming more difficult. You could provide your identification if the law requires it, avoid arguing about the situation. You can politely state that you would like to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. Waiting to discuss the incident on social media until after you understand your legal options may also protect your interests.
Keep your focus on the game
A Razorbacks game should leave you with great memories instead of court dates. A little preparation, responsible choices and awareness of common game day offenses may help you enjoy the experience while reducing the chance of criminal offenses and possible arrest.]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[What should you do if police ask to search your car?]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475832026-07-17T07:35:42Z2026-07-17T07:35:42ZStay calm and avoid resisting
The best first step is to stay calm and avoid arguing or physically interfering with the officer. Keep your hands where they are visible, follow lawful instructions and speak respectfully throughout the encounter. Even if you disagree with the request or believe the search is unfair, trying to stop it yourself could make the situation worse.
Remaining composed helps keep the interaction focused and reduces the chance of additional problems during the stop.
Understand your right to refuse consent
You may have the right to refuse a request to search your car when an officer is asking for your permission. In Arkansas, however, refusing consent does not always prevent a search, as police may still search your car if they have another legal basis for doing so.
A simple, respectful response is often the best approach. Avoid arguing about whether the search is legal at the roadside because that question is usually addressed later if charges are filed.
Pay attention to what happens during the stop
As soon as you can safely do so, write down details such as why the officer stopped you, whether the officer asked for your permission to search and whether any witnesses were present. You can also include what they said before and during the search.
These details may help your attorney evaluate whether the search followed the law.
Know your next steps after the stop
If police searched your car or arrested you afterward, avoid guessing whether the officer acted lawfully or discussing the situation on social media.
Instead, gather your notes and any paperwork you received, then seek legal assistance as soon as possible. An attorney can review the circumstances of the stop, explain how Arkansas law applies to your case and help you understand your legal options.]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[DWI and DUI: the legal distinctions in Arkansas]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475842026-07-02T12:29:57Z2026-07-02T12:29:57ZThe difference between a DUI and a DWI
The state determines whether a drunk driving offense is a DWI or a DUI based on driver age and blood alcohol content (BAC) levels. In short, a DWI is the standard charge for alcohol impairment of adults, while the DUI is exclusive to underage drivers. Arkansas’s zero-tolerance approach to driving under the influence means stricter guidelines for minors.
A DWI applies to drivers of any age whose BAC is at or over 0.08%, or where there is clear evidence of substantial mental or physical impairment from alcohol. A first-time DWI is a standard misdemeanor.
A DUI is a charge that applies strictly to drivers under the age of 21 with a lower BAC. Minors are subject to tighter rules: a BAC between 0.02% and 0.079% nets them this charge. However, if a minor is found to have a BAC of 0.08% or higher, they will face a standard DWI instead.
How do DUI and DWI differ in consequences?
Both charges result in severe penalties, but adult drinking while driving convictions come with higher costs and longer suspensions. Here are differences between penalties for a standard first-time DWI to a first-time DUI for underage drivers.
Driving while intoxicated
Jail time: At least 24 hours mandatory jail time (or public service)
License suspension: 6 months license suspension
Fine: $150-1000 fine
Driving under the Influence
Jail time: Generally no for first-time offenders
License suspension: 90 days license suspension
Fine: $100-500 fine
Driving a car while intoxicated impacts both underage and adult drivers over the long term. For young individuals, higher insurance premiums, disqualifications from professional licenses and more are consequences they face. And just like an adult charge, a DUI may stay on a criminal record permanently.
Legal options
Whether you are facing adult or underage drunken driving charges, you must address them carefully. Arkansas law strictly limits "pleading down" to a lower offense such as reckless driving unless the defense can successfully challenge the prosecution's evidence. You must defend cases through hard evidence and legal challenges instead of standard plea negotiations. Should you face the possibility of drunken driving convictions, it is advisable to seek legal counsel to help you build your defense.
]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[False allegations and recantations: Domestic violence law in Arkansas]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475852026-06-25T20:13:36Z2026-06-25T20:13:36ZDomestic violence cases in Arkansas can become especially complicated when an alleged victim later changes their story or asks that charges be dropped. Many people assume that a recantation of initially damning allegations automatically ends the prosecution of an alleged offender. In reality, prosecutors often continue pursuing domestic violence charges even when a complaining witness no longer wishes to cooperate.Arkansas prosecutors frequently rely on what is known as evidence-based prosecution. Rather than depending solely on the testimony of the alleged victim, they may build a case using other forms of evidence gathered during the investigation. This can include 911 recordings, police body camera footage, photographs, medical records, witness statements and statements made during or immediately after an alleged incident. Prosecutors may also attempt to introduce certain out-of-court statements under recognized hearsay exceptions, including so-called "excited utterances" made while a person is under the stress of a startling event. As a result, a recantation alone rarely stops prosecutorial effort in its tracks.
What can be done if recantations alone are not enough?
Recantations occur for many reasons. Some individuals conclude that their original allegations were inaccurate or exaggerated. Others may face family pressures, financial concerns, emotional conflicts or concerns about the consequences of prosecution. Because every situation is different, it is important to avoid assumptions or victim-blaming. Prosecutors are often trained to view recantations as a common feature of domestic violence cases, which is one reason they may continue moving forward even when an alleged victim changes their account.To that end, defendants need to understand that contacting an accuser is an “absolutely not” situation. If a no-contact order is in place, even seemingly harmless communication may result in additional legal consequences. Attempts to persuade someone to change their testimony or avoid court appearances can also trigger allegations of witness tampering or related offenses. If contact is necessary, it should be initiated by a defendant’s attorney only. In some situations, counsel may seek modifications to bond conditions or no-contact orders through appropriate legal channels rather than risking direct contact with the alleged victim. Every case is unique, however, so relying on assumptions is unwise. Ultimately, a defendant’s surest way forward is to discuss false allegations and/or recantations with a skilled legal team in order to craft the strongest defense strategy possible under the circumstances. ]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[How can co-parents communicate more effectively?]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475862026-06-05T15:55:16Z2026-06-05T15:55:16ZKeep each conversation centered on your children
It might help to limit co-parenting discussions to child-related matters. You might focus on the details both parents need to know, such as pickup times, school updates, medical appointments and activity schedules.
You may want to treat these exchanges much like workplace messages. A respectful and purposeful tone could help both parents stay focused. Instead of revisiting old conflicts or personal complaints, you might use direct language about the next parenting task. For example, you could ask whether pickup should be at school or after practice.
This approach may keep conversations shorter, clearer and easier to return to when new issues come up.
Choose methods that fit the message
Different communication methods may work better for different needs. Text or email typically suits routine scheduling matters because each parent has time to read, think and respond. Written messages may also create a record that both parents could review later.
Apps could help with shared calendars, expense tracking and basic updates. A phone call or video chat may work better for urgent or more detailed discussions if both parents communicate well that way.
The best method to use usually depends on what lowers tension in your situation. With the right way to communicate, misunderstandings may become less frequent.
Small changes may support a steadier routine
Co-parenting communication usually takes practice and patience. Every co-parenting relationship is different, so communication habits might need constant adjustment. Over time, consistent communication may help parents handle day-to-day decisions with less confusion and conflict.]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[When domestic violence allegations trigger gun surrenders in Arkansas]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475872026-05-29T12:08:38Z2026-05-29T12:08:38ZAn arrest or court order in a family dispute can change your gun rights fast. Judges act to reduce risk while the case moves forward.
You can protect yourself when you know exactly when surrender rules apply and how the process works. Before you move a single firearm, get clear on the steps and the penalties when facing domestic violence (DV) charges.
When you must surrender firearms
Several moments in Arkansas can trigger an immediate duty to turn in guns. Each one comes from a court order you need to follow to the letter. Watch for these common triggers:
Arrest and bond conditions: After a DV arrest, the judge can bar possession and order you to surrender guns to the arresting agency or the sheriff.
Criminal no-contact orders: At first appearance, the court can issue a no-contact order that forbids guns and sets a surrender deadline.
Civil orders of protection, ex parte: A temporary order, which lasts up to 30 days or until the court date, can require surrender.
Civil orders of protection, final: A final order often continues the no-guns rule for its full term and can keep firearms with law enforcement until the court lifts the restriction.
Know which order controls your case so you meet the exact terms and timelines.
How the Arkansas surrender process works
Courts expect fast compliance and solid records. Follow a clear plan to avoid new charges:
Who takes the guns: Turn firearms in to the arresting agency or the county sheriff as the order states. Do not give guns to friends or family.
Deadlines: Follow the timeline on the order, often immediate or within 24 hours. Confirm any questions with your lawyer or the clerk.
Receipts: Get a written receipt that lists each firearm by make, model and serial number. Keep copies safe.
Storage: Police or the sheriff store the guns or use approved storage. Expect handling or storage fees.
Return: Ask for return only after the court lifts all gun restrictions and you hold no disqualifier. Bring ID and your receipt and get a written release.
Penalties: Judges can issue a warrant, hold you in contempt or add criminal charges for any violation. Police can seize firearms and the court can raise bond.
Meanwhile, federal law bars possession if a court issues a qualifying DV restraining order or you have a misdemeanor DV conviction. A plea to a DV‑labeled misdemeanor can create a lifetime federal ban. Keep in mind that keeping guns with a friend, in a car or a storage unit you control, can lead to trouble as courts may treat this as possession. When in doubt, pause and speak with counsel before you transfer, store or try to reclaim any firearm.]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[3 ways you can help your child cope with your divorce in Arkansas]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475882026-05-07T12:42:35Z2026-05-07T12:42:35ZMaintain open and honest communication
Your child might the divorce is their fault. It may help to have age-appropriate conversations with them about the divorce. You do not need to share every detail, but explaining that you still love them and that they are not responsible for your separation could comfort them. Consider encouraging your child to ask questions and express their feelings without fear of judgment.
Keep routines as consistent as possible
During a divorce, your child's life may feel unstable and unpredictable. Maintaining familiar routines can help by providing a sense of security and normalcy. Try to keep consistent bedtimes, meal schedules and extracurricular activities. If your child moves between two households, consider establishing similar routines in both homes. This consistency can help your child feel more grounded during an uncertain time.
Avoid putting your child in the middle
It can be tempting to have your child act as a messenger or to share your frustrations about your ex-spouse. However, doing so may cause them significant emotional harm. Your child may love both their parents, which means they might feel uncomfortable “choosing sides.”
Try to avoid asking your child to relay messages, discussing legal matters in their presence or speaking negatively about the other parent. Courts in Arkansas generally prioritize the best interests of a child. They may look unfavorably on parents who put their children in adult conflicts. Instead, communicate directly with your ex-spouse about parenting matters and shield your child from adult conflicts.
Supporting your child through change
Divorce can be stressful for children, but your actions can make a meaningful difference in how they adjust. Your child might need additional reassurance along the way. Taking thoughtful steps now can help your child feel loved, supported and more confident about the future.]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[What drivers should know about Arkansas DWI checkpoints]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=475892026-05-02T22:21:33Z2026-05-02T22:21:33ZWhat are the requirements for a legal DWI checkpoint?
Many law enforcement agencies conducting sobriety checkpoints make announcements about upcoming checkpoints in advance. Checkpoints are especially common around major holidays or when conducted in conjunction with Drive Sober campaigns.
They do not need to provide advance notice for a checkpoint to be legal. Police departments do need to have a written plan approved by management. They must erect signage and ensure that the checkpoint is visible and well-lit. Typically, they also need to select locations and times where DWI risk is higher than average. They also need to maintain a neutral stopping pattern to prevent abuses of officer discretion and unnecessary delays for motorists.
What happens at a checkpoint?
Checkpoints serve as a cursory screening device for law enforcement professionals. They can briefly interact with each driver passing through the checkpoint by checking their license and registration. During that interaction, they can ask questions, although drivers can decline to answer invasive questions.
Officers who spot signs of impairment may ask the drivers to move to a secondary area for additional screening. That is when drivers may have to submit to testing. Officers may request that drivers perform field sobriety tests. They may also ask drivers to submit to breath tests. Pre-arrest chemical testing and field sobriety testing are voluntary, meaning that drivers can decline those tests.
After an arrest, refusing a chemical test is a violation of implied consent laws that could lead to a driver's license suspension and other penalties. Drivers who are 21 or older can face DWI charges for a blood alcohol concentration BAC of 0.08% or clear signs of impairment. Drivers under 21 are at risk of a driving under the influence (DUI) charge if their BAC test results are between 0.02 and 0.079%.
Drivers can potentially take reasonable steps to avoid a checkpoint as they approach it. They can reroute or turn in a safe and legal manner to avoid a checkpoint. However, if officers notice them conducting illegal traffic maneuvers or if they demonstrate observable impairment, they may then face a one-on-one traffic stop. Police officers can also arrest those stopped at checkpoints due to the driver not having a driver's license, invalid insurance or an outstanding warrant.
Those facing DWI or DUI charges because of a checkpoint stop may need assistance preparing to fight those allegations. Consulting with an Arkansas criminal defense attorney can help those arrested at a sobriety roadblock.]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[What you must know about the complexities of parenting schedules]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=473352026-01-29T07:27:34Z2026-01-29T07:27:34ZTypes of parenting plans
Parenting plans often come with 50/50 schedules to ensure a child spends equal time with both. Here are the common examples to give you an idea of what you can use:
Alternating weeks: The children spend one week with one parent and the next with the other.
2 weeks each: The children spend two weeks with one parent, then the next with the other.
2-2-3 schedule: The children spend alternating two-day blocks with each parent, followed by a three-day weekend that swaps every other week.
3-4-4-3 schedule: The children spend a three-day and a four-day block with one parent, then reverse those durations the following week.
Effective plans must also integrate contingencies for special events, such as academic breaks, holidays and birthdays.
Pros and cons of parenting schedules
While balanced schedules promote fairness, they can be impractical for some families. One parent may feel marginalized. Furthermore, children can have a hard time adjusting to the constant shuttling of homes.
If a 50/50 schedule may not be feasible, consider exploring customized plans with your co-parent. This accounts for unique work shifts, extracurriculars and other considerations that can lessen the negative impact of divorce on children.
Modifying the order when life changes
Life can be unpredictable, as events occur without notice. Under Arkansas law, you can request a modification if there is a material change in circumstances. These can include a job relocation or a child’s changing school needs. Conversely, subjective grievances, such as conflicting parenting styles, generally do not meet the legal threshold for a modification.
If you feel overwhelmed by the process of creating a parenting plan, seeking help from a divorce attorney can be a valuable resource. Their advice can guide you and your co-parent to find a schedule that works for both parties and the children.]]>On Behalf of Natural State Trial Attorneys<![CDATA[When discipline crosses the line and flips custody]]>https://www.catterlinlaw.com/?p=473222025-10-01T13:56:44Z2025-10-01T13:04:19Zprotect your child.
At what point does discipline become abuse?
Reasonable discipline is a parent’s right. But when discipline starts becoming abuse, the courts will step in to prioritize the child’s rights. Here are some warning signs you need to watch out for:
Verbal attacks: Insults, name-calling or shaming a child in front of other people.
Isolation as punishment: Cutting a child off from friends or family as a form of control.
Unrealistic expectations: Overreacting to normal mistakes that children make and demanding perfection.
Manipulation or threats: Using fear to control a child’s behavior.
It is so easy to overlook abuse when the child is not in your care, which is why you should keep an open communication with them, so they can alert you if something is wrong. Judges consider all forms of neglect or abuse as grounds for flipping custody or changing the terms to include supervised visitation only.
What to do if you suspect abuse
Abuse is not always obvious, especially if it is new behavior on your former spouse’s part. But if you believe your co-parent is crossing the line, start keeping records of the behavior. Bring your child to a pediatrician or a child psychologist for a professional evaluation. If your doctor identifies concrete signs of abuse, file a petition to modify the custody agreement right away. Work with a family law attorney if you are unsure about the process.
Protect your child
Do not let strict parenting escalate. Remove your child from the situation and gather all the evidence you need to present in court. If your former partner cannot protect your child, it is up to you to do so.]]>