Civil Rights & Disputes in Arkansas
Key Arkansas Law
Arkansas Civil Rights Act of 1993 — Ark. Code Ann. Section 16-123-101 et seq.
The Arkansas Civil Rights Act prohibits discrimination based on race, religion, national origin, gender, and disability. It provides a private right of action in Arkansas state court and allows recovery of compensatory and punitive damages.
View official statuteProcedural Details in Arkansas
Arkansas Agencies & Resources
EEOC Little Rock Area Office
Primary federal agency for employment discrimination charges in Arkansas; Arkansas lacks a full-service state civil rights agency.
Arkansas Attorney General — Civil Rights Unit
The AG's office handles some civil rights enforcement matters under Arkansas law.
Arkansas Bar Association — Lawyer Referral
Referral service connecting individuals with civil rights attorneys licensed in Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Arkansas civil rights law protect against age discrimination?
Arkansas's Civil Rights Act does not include age as a protected class. Age discrimination claims (for workers 40 and older) must be brought under the federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) through the EEOC.
How long do I have to file a discrimination charge in Arkansas?
Because Arkansas does not have a full FEPA-qualified state civil rights agency, workers typically have only 180 days from the discriminatory act to file with the EEOC. The 300-day extended window that applies in states with worksharing agreements does not apply in Arkansas for most charge types.
Does Arkansas have an anti-SLAPP law?
No. Arkansas does not have a general anti-SLAPP statute. Defamation defendants cannot file a special motion for early dismissal with fee-shifting. Standard dispositive motions (motion to dismiss, summary judgment) are the primary tools for meritless defamation claims.
What is the defamation statute of limitations in Arkansas?
Defamation claims in Arkansas must be filed within three years under Ark. Code Ann. Section 16-56-105. This is longer than many states' two-year window.
Related Civil Rights & Disputes Scenarios
Can I sue for libel over false online reviews?
Legal options when false online reviews damage business reputation or cause financial harm.
Can I sue for intentional infliction of emotional distress?
Legal options when someone intentionally or recklessly causes extreme emotional distress through outrageous conduct.
Can I sue for trespassing or property line disputes?
Legal options when neighbors, companies, or individuals trespass on your property or violate property boundaries.
Can I sue for police misconduct?
Understanding civil rights claims under 42 U.S.C. Section 1983, the qualified immunity doctrine, and the process for holding law enforcement accountable.
Have a Specific Situation in Arkansas?
Every situation is unique. Try our educational assessment tool for guidance based on your specific circumstances.