Where do I file for probate in Conway County?

File with the Circuit Clerk at the Conway County Courthouse, 115 South Moose Street, Morrilton, AR 72110.

How much does probate cost in Conway County?

The filing fee for a standard probate petition is approximately $165.00. A small estate affidavit costs approximately $25.00 to file.

Can I avoid probate in Conway County with a small estate?

Yes, if the estate is valued at $100,000 or less (excluding homestead and statutory allowances) and 45 days have passed since death, you may use the Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate.

How long does probate take in Conway County?

Formal probate typically takes at least 6-9 months due to the mandatory 6-month creditor claim period. Complex cases can take longer.

Do I need an attorney for probate in Conway County?

While not strictly required by law for all procedures, Arkansas probate can be complex. Corporate entities (like trust companies) must be represented by counsel. Hiring an attorney is highly recommended to ensure compliance with statutory deadlines.

Where is probate notice published in Conway County?

Notices are typically published in the *Petit Jean Country Headlight*, the local newspaper of general circulation.

Conway County Probate Guide: Courts, Fees & Process (2026)

Overview

Conway County is located in Arkansas with a population of approximately 21,422. The Conway County Circuit Court handles all probate and estate matters for decedents who were domiciled in the county at the time of death.

Arkansas probate is governed by Arkansas Code Annotated Title 28. The process begins with filing a Petition for Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative (for testate estates) or a Petition for Administration (for intestate estates). The court then issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.

Arkansas offers a simplified procedure known as the Affidavit for Collection of Small Estate. This is available if the value of the estate (excluding the homestead and statutory allowances) does not exceed $100,000 and at least 45 days have passed since the death.

Arkansas law establishes a statutory fee schedule for attorneys and personal representatives based on the value of the personal property administered, though this can be modified by contract or court order.

This guide provides an informational overview of the Conway County probate process. It is not legal advice and is not a substitute for consulting a qualified attorney. Laws and local procedures may change — verify current requirements with the court.

Courthouse Information

Conway County Circuit Court

Probate matters in Conway County are handled at the Conway County Courthouse.

Address: 115 South Moose Street, Morrilton, AR 72110

Phone: (501) 354-9617 (Circuit Clerk)

Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:30 PM

The Circuit Clerk's office is typically located in Room 206. This office accepts filings and maintains probate records.

Parking and Access

Public parking is available around the courthouse square and on adjacent streets. The building is accessible to the public during business hours, with security screening at the entrance.

Filing Process

Step 1: Determine If Probate Is Necessary

Before filing, assess whether formal probate is required:

Small Estate Affidavit: If the estate is valued at $100,000 or less (excluding homestead/statutory allowances) and 45 days have passed since death, you may file an affidavit to collect assets without full administration.
Non-Probate Transfers: Assets with designated beneficiaries (POD/TOD accounts, life insurance) or held in joint tenancy bypass probate.
Trust administration: Assets held in a living trust generally do not require probate.

Step 2: File the Petition

If formal probate is needed, file a Petition for Probate with the Conway County Circuit Court. Include:

Cover sheet and Petition
Original will and codicils (if any)
Certified death certificate
Filing fee (approximately $165.00)
Proposed Order and Letters

E-filing is available and often required for attorneys in Arkansas circuit courts.

Step 3: Provide Notice

After filing, you must:

Mail notice of the hearing to all heirs, beneficiaries, and interested parties.
Publish notice in a newspaper of general circulation in Conway County (such as the Petit Jean Country Headlight) once a week for two consecutive weeks.

Step 4: Attend the Hearing

The court may schedule a hearing on the petition. If the petition is uncontested and all documents are in order, the judge may sign the order without a formal hearing in some cases. Upon approval, the clerk issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.

Step 5: Administer the Estate

After receiving Letters, the personal representative must:

Notify creditors: Creditors have 6 months from the date of the first publication of notice to file claims.
Inventory and appraise: File a true and perfect inventory of all estate assets within 2 months of appointment.
Pay valid creditor claims and administrative expenses.
File federal and state tax returns as needed.
Distribute assets to beneficiaries.
File a final accounting and petition for discharge to close the estate.

Local Requirements

Conway County-Specific Procedures

E-filing: Conway County utilizes the state's electronic filing system (eFlex). Attorneys are generally required to e-file.
Local Forms: While the state provides standard probate forms, always check with the Circuit Clerk for any county-specific cover sheets or requirements.
Publication: Notice is typically published in the Petit Jean Country Headlight.
Payment: The clerk's office typically accepts cash, cashier's checks, or money orders. Credit cards may be accepted with a processing fee.

Always verify specific judge's requirements regarding proposed orders and hearing scheduling.

Timeline & Fees

Filing Fees (Conway County)

Probate / Administration: approximately $165.00
Small Estate Affidavit: approximately $25.00 filing fee + $5.00 per certified copy
Will for Safekeeping: approximately $5.00
Publication costs: approximately $100-$200 depending on the newspaper and length of notice
Certified copies: approximately $5.00 each

Note: Arkansas has a statutory fee schedule for attorneys and personal representatives based on the value of the estate's personal property (e.g., 5% on the first $5,000, 4% on the next $20,000, etc.), unless otherwise agreed.

Payment Methods

The court accepts cash, business checks, and money orders. Credit card payments may be available but often incur a convenience fee.

Estimated Timelines

Small Estate Affidavit: Can be filed 45 days after death; process is quick once filed.
Simple estates: 6-9 months (driven largely by the 6-month creditor claim period).
Complex or contested estates: 12 months to 2 years or more.

The 6-month creditor claim period begins after the first publication of notice, which sets the minimum duration for most formal probates.

Local Resources

Conway County Court Resources

Court Website: https://conwaycountyar.com/home/circuit-clerk/
Arkansas Judiciary Forms: https://arcourts.gov/forms-and-publications/court-forms/probate-division/forms
Case Search (CourtConnect): https://caseinfo.arcourts.gov/cconnect/PROD/public/ck_public_qry_main.cp_main_idx

Legal Aid and Attorney Referrals

Arkansas Bar Association: (501) 375-4606 — https://www.arkbar.com
Legal Aid of Arkansas: (800) 952-9243 — https://arlegalaid.org/

Publication

Petit Jean Country Headlight: (501) 354-2451 — Local newspaper of general circulation in Morrilton.

Probate in Conway County, Arkansas: 2026 Guide