I am considering a divorce and would like to leave the state. Can I leave the state with my children, and THEN file for divorce in another state?

>>>>>>>>>>> You'd have to meet the residency requirements in the new state before filing for divorce and it can take as long as 1 year . Until the residency requirements are met in the new state , the old state maintains jurisdiction over the children and they can be ordered to return until the divorce is finalized .

Or do I have to stay in Arkansas until the divorce is finalized? I need ur help PLEASE!

>>>>>>>>>>>>>> A court could order that it's not in the best interest of the children to relocate out of state and award custody to the other parent .

BTW, we were married here in Arkansas, if that helps at all.

>>>>>>>>>>> It doesn't matter where you were married .