How Arkansas Just Became the Safest State to Practice Law

Published on April 25, 2024
Duration: 7:10

A recent Arkansas Supreme Court ruling in Corbett v. Palosi County Circuit Court establishes that attorneys, as 'officers of the court,' are permitted to possess handguns within courthouses. This interpretation stems from a specific Arkansas statute that includes 'officer of the court' alongside law enforcement and bailiffs as authorized individuals. The ruling clarifies that the statute does not distinguish between courthouses and courtrooms for this allowance.

Quick Summary

Arkansas attorneys can now carry firearms in courthouses following a Supreme Court ruling on statute 5-73-120 B. The court interpreted 'officer of the court' to include lawyers, permitting handgun possession within courthouse premises.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Arkansas's Legal Landscape
  2. 01:14The Corbett v. Palosi County Case
  3. 01:37Attorneys' Right to Carry in Courthouses
  4. 02:01Unique Arkansas Law Interpretation
  5. 03:07Statutory Language: ACA 5-73-120 B
  6. 03:56Statutory Interpretation: 'Officer of the Court'
  7. 05:06Courtroom vs. Courthouse Distinction
  8. 05:53Conclusion: Safest State to Practice Law

Frequently Asked Questions

Can lawyers carry firearms in Arkansas courthouses?

Yes, following a ruling by the Arkansas Supreme Court in Corbett v. Palosi County Circuit Court, attorneys are permitted to possess handguns inside courthouses. This is based on the interpretation of state law that includes 'officer of the court' as an authorized individual.

What law allows attorneys to carry firearms in Arkansas courthouses?

The ruling interprets Arkansas Code Annotated section 5-73-120 B. This statute permits law enforcement officers, bailiffs, and 'other person authorized by the court,' which the court has extended to include attorneys as 'officers of the court'.

Does the Arkansas ruling allow attorneys to carry firearms in courtrooms?

The ruling specifically states attorneys can possess handguns in courthouses. While the statute doesn't distinguish between courthouses and courtrooms, the court's order as it stands today permits possession within the courthouse.

What is the significance of the 'officer of the court' designation in Arkansas law?

The designation 'officer of the court' is significant because the Arkansas Supreme Court interpreted it to include attorneys, thereby granting them the right to carry handguns in courthouses under state statute 5-73-120 B.

Related News

All News →

More 2nd Amendment & Law Videos You Might Like

More from Washington Gun Law

View all →