§ 9-20-109 - Commencement of proceedings. - Arkansas Statutes

9-20-109. Commencement of proceedings.

(a) Proceedings shall be commenced by filing a petition with the clerk of the probate division of circuit court.

(b) Only the Department of Human Services may file a petition seeking ex parte emergency relief.

(c) No fees may be charged or collected by the clerk in cases brought by the department, including, but not limited to:

(1) Fees for filing;

(2) Summons; or

(3) Subpoenas.

(d) The court shall immediately appoint the Arkansas Public Defender Commission to represent the maltreated adult if:

(1) There is reasonable cause to believe the maltreated adult is indigent; or

(2) The maltreated adult's liberty interest is in jeopardy and the financial condition of the maltreated adult is undetermined.