Each state’s constitution and laws establish the state’s courts, which interpret state laws (and generally not federal laws). A court of last resort, often known as a supreme court, is usually the highest court in the state. Some states also have an intermediate court of appeals. Below these intermediate courts of appeal are the state trial courts, where most lawsuits begin. State trial courts are referred to differently in different states—often as district courts, circuit courts, or superior courts.

State courts are often courts of general jurisdiction—meaning they hear all types of cases—involving criminal law, family law, probate law, and general disputes involving money and property. But more populated counties often have courts of specific jurisdiction, such as family courts that only hear family law matters (divorce, child custody, child support); criminal courts that only hear criminal matters; and probate courts that only handle the probate of estates and related litigation.

In Arkansas, the judicial system is structured with a variety of courts, each serving a specific function within the legal framework. The Arkansas Supreme Court is the court of last resort in the state, handling appeals and having the final say on matters of state law. Below the Supreme Court is the Arkansas Court of Appeals, which serves as an intermediate appellate court for cases that do not go directly to the Supreme Court. At the trial level, Arkansas has Circuit Courts, which are courts of general jurisdiction and handle a wide range of cases, including criminal, civil, probate, and family law matters. These Circuit Courts are divided into divisions such as criminal, civil, probate, and family divisions, particularly in more populous areas, to better manage the caseload and specialization of the judiciary. Additionally, Arkansas has District Courts, which are courts of limited jurisdiction and typically handle lower-level criminal matters, traffic violations, and small claims. The structure of Arkansas's courts ensures that there is a clear hierarchy for appeals and that specialized matters can be addressed by courts with appropriate jurisdiction and expertise.