Factors That Affect Pending Felony Charges

Several factors determine how long a felony charge can stay pending:

• Prosecutor discretion — Prosecutors decide when to formally file charges.

• Court backlog — Heavy dockets in Arkansas courts can slow cases down.

• Complex investigations — Cases involving forensic evidence or multiple defendants take longer.

• Statute of limitations — Arkansas law sets time limits on how long the state can wait before filing charges.

When someone is arrested or investigated for a felony in Arkansas, one of the biggest questions is: how long can charges hang over you? Pending felony charges can disrupt life, jobs, and family. At Ludwig Law Firm, we believe Arkansans deserve clarity about how long prosecutors can hold cases open.

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Statute of Limitations in Arkansas

Most felony charges have specific timeframes:

You Don’t Have Time to Wait

If you know a felony charge may be filed, the earlier you bring in legal representation, the more options you keep open. Waiting often means prosecutors control the timeline. If you’re worried about pending charges, call Ludwig Law Firm at 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com for immediate help.

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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.

Why Pending Charges Matter

Pending felony charges can affect employment, travel, and personal reputation — even before a conviction. Knowing that these cases can take years helps explain why early legal representation is crucial.

Ludwig’s Strategic Advantage: Why Our Arkansas Defense Lawyers Simply Win

Our firm tries cases in front of a jury all the time. That reputation changes how prosecutors approach us when charges are pending. For more than four decades, Ludwig Law Firm has combined courtroom skill with client care to push for timely, fair resolutions.

When cases demand even more trial strength, we partner with Harry Warden, a Little Rock criminal defense lawyer. Together, Ludwig and Warden Law Firms provide Arkansas clients with the full spectrum of defense — careful preparation and relentless advocacy.