Deadlines for Filing an Appeal in Arkansas

In this post, I discuss the various deadlines for filing an appeal in Arkansas.

Arkansas enforces strict deadlines for filing appeals. After a judgment or order is entered, you have thirty days to file a notice of appeal. A notice of cross-appeal must be filed within ten days of receiving the notice of appeal or thirty days of the entry of the judgment or order, whichever is longer.

The deadlines for filing an appeal are strictly enforced. You must pay careful attention to the state’s requirements to ensure your appeal receives proper attention.

However, while the timeframe is short, several exceptions can provide additional time.

Final Motions

Filing certain post-judgment motions extends the appeal deadline. These include motions for judgment notwithstanding the verdict, motions to amend findings of fact, motions for a new trial, or any motion to vacate, alter, or amend the judgment. Such motions must be filed no later than ten days after entry of judgment.

When a final motion is timely filed, the appeal deadline extends to thirty days following the entry of the order addressing that motion.

If the circuit court does not dispose of the final motion within thirty days of filing, the motion is deemed denied on the thirtieth day. You then have thirty days from that date to file your notice of appeal.

Extension When No Notice Is Given

If you can demonstrate that you did not receive notice of the judgment or order despite your counsel’s diligence, you may file a motion to extend the appeal deadline. The circuit court must grant your extension motion if no party would be prejudiced, provided you file it within one hundred eighty days of the judgment or order.

Upon approval, your extension grants fourteen additional days from the date the extension order is entered to file your notice of appeal.

Appeal deadlines are short, but these exceptions offer meaningful relief. Meeting the correct deadlines and following proper procedures are essential when appealing a lower court’s ruling. We recommend hiring a competent attorney to guide you through the process.

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Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Consult a qualified Arkansas attorney about your specific situation.

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Sources:

Rule 4 of the Arkansas Rules of Appellate Procedure—Civil (timing for notice of appeal); Arkansas Rules of Appellate Procedure—Criminal (parallel criminal appeal deadlines)

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