Courts are state and federal government institutions with the authority to decide legal disputes and administer justice under the law in civil, criminal, and administrative matters. Courts are generally given this authority under the relevant state or federal constitution, and the relevant state or federal statutes. Courts are generally staffed by (1) one judge (in trial courts) or a panel of judges (in appellate courts) who interpret and apply the law; (2) support staff members that may include administrators (clerks); (3) a court reporter to record court proceedings; and (4) a bailiff to provide security.

The room in which court proceedings are conducted is known as the courtroom, and the building that includes the courtroom is known as the courthouse. The term “the court” may be used to refer to the judge or judges who are presiding over court proceedings. The judges in a state or federal court system are collectively known as the judiciary.

In Arkansas, courts operate as part of the judicial branch of government, with the authority to resolve legal disputes and administer justice in accordance with the Arkansas Constitution, state statutes, and federal law. The state court system is structured with various levels, including trial courts such as Circuit Courts and District Courts, where typically one judge presides over proceedings. Appellate courts, like the Arkansas Court of Appeals and the Arkansas Supreme Court, feature panels of judges who review lower court decisions. These courts are supported by staff including clerks, court reporters, and bailiffs. Court reporters are responsible for creating official records of proceedings, while bailiffs ensure courtroom security. Courtrooms are the specific spaces where legal proceedings occur, and these are housed within courthouses. 'The court' can refer to the presiding judge or panel of judges. Judges, as part of the judiciary, are appointed or elected to their positions depending on the level of the court within the state's judicial system.