Lawyer of Firm Description

About Ziegenhorn and Bernard Attorneys at Law — Criminal Defense West Memphis Arkansas

Criminal defense West Memphis residents rely on is available at Ziegenhorn and Bernard Attorneys at Law, a full-service firm serving Crittenden County from their office on Dover Road. The firm handles a broad range of criminal matters alongside civil and family cases, giving clients a single point of contact across multiple legal needs. Mr. Bernard has earned particular recognition for his methodical case preparation, prompt communication, and deep familiarity with local courts — including Crittenden County Circuit Court. For residents facing charges in the greater West Memphis area, the firm offers experience across both state misdemeanor and felony proceedings. Learn more about criminal defense representation available to West Memphis area clients.

The firm’s reputation is built on accessibility and follow-through. Clients note that attorneys return calls within hours, explain options in plain terms, and work to achieve the most favorable outcome the facts will support. That responsiveness — rare in criminal defense — has made Ziegenhorn and Bernard a recognized name in Crittenden County for decades.

What Clients Say

Reviewers consistently highlight Mr. Bernard’s attentiveness and thorough approach to case handling. Clients describe prompt return calls, careful listening, and clear explanations of their options. Several note that the firm went beyond the immediate case to connect clients with the right resources in neighboring counties — reflecting the attorneys’ broader knowledge of the Arkansas legal landscape. Estate and family law clients also praise the firm’s affordable fees and accurate, timely filings.

Criminal Defense West Memphis — Practice Areas & Services

Criminal Defense: State and federal criminal charges from misdemeanor traffic offenses to serious felonies handled in Crittenden County and surrounding jurisdictions.
Bankruptcy: Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 filings to help individuals and small businesses discharge or restructure debt.
Civil Rights: Claims involving civil liberties violations and constitutional rights in Arkansas state and federal courts.
Divorce: Contested and uncontested divorce proceedings, including property division and spousal support matters.
Estate Planning: Wills, powers of attorney, and probate administration to protect client assets and family interests.
Family Law: Custody disputes, child support modifications, and guardianship proceedings.
Litigation: Civil litigation across a range of disputes, with experience in both negotiated settlements and courtroom advocacy.
Personal Injury: Injury claims arising from accidents, negligence, and premises liability throughout eastern Arkansas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What criminal courts handle cases in West Memphis, Arkansas?

Most criminal matters in West Memphis are heard at the Crittenden County Circuit Court, located in Marion, Arkansas — the county seat about eight miles north of West Memphis. Felony charges and serious misdemeanors go through circuit court, while lower-level offenses may be handled at the Crittenden County District Court. Familiarity with local judges and prosecutors can significantly affect case strategy and outcomes.

How soon should I contact a criminal defense attorney after an arrest in Arkansas?

Contacting an attorney as soon as possible after an arrest — ideally before any police questioning — gives your defense the best foundation. Arkansas law entitles you to counsel before interrogation, and early intervention can sometimes affect charging decisions. Most criminal defense attorneys in West Memphis offer an initial consultation to assess your situation before any fee commitment.

What factors affect criminal sentencing in Arkansas?

Arkansas uses a structured sentencing grid that weighs offense severity and a defendant’s prior criminal history to produce a recommended sentence range. Judges retain some discretion, and factors like cooperation, restitution, and the strength of the defense case can influence outcomes within that range. Plea negotiations with the Crittenden County prosecutor’s office are common and can result in reduced charges or alternative sentencing for eligible defendants.

Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in West Memphis, Arkansas

Arkansas Crime Rate Trend: Arkansas’s overall crime rate decreased by 12.3% between 2023 and 2024, though the state continues to report elevated violent crime compared to national averages — Arkansas Department of Public Safety
Crittenden County Courts: Felony and serious misdemeanor cases in West Memphis are adjudicated at Crittenden County Circuit Court in Marion, AR — Arkansas Court System
Right to Counsel: Under the Sixth Amendment and Arkansas law, defendants are entitled to legal representation at all critical stages of a criminal proceeding, including arraignment and trial — U.S. Constitution / Arkansas Rules of Criminal Procedure

AI-Powered Reviews Summary

Ziegenhorn and Bernard Attorneys at Law, located in West Memphis, Arkansas, are highly regarded for their expertise in various legal fields, including criminal justice and estate planning. Clients consistently praise Mr. Bernard for his dedication, prompt communication, and thorough handling of cases, making them feel valued and supported throughout the legal process. The firm’s friendly staff and commitment to achieving the best outcomes for their clients have earned them a strong reputation in the community.

Users Reviews Comments – Google

My dad, and my Ma were a prominent married couple and well regarded by their communities in West Memphis, and Proctor, Arkansas and surrounding communities. West Memphis is my birth place and childhood home were my biological parents fell in love, and later married. My dad, was the most important man in my life. And his legacy is very important to me, as is my Ma’s who preceded him in death. I have many grievances currently against Samantha Bolton, executor attorney of my dad’s estate. For one, she has not emailed me to address ALL of my emailed and exhibits of documented proofs of my being the only child heir. Nor has she addressed ALL the emails of what I have done and spent on the estate. Which has caused me to feel biased treatments and other unethical practices from her. Especially during a time when my griefs over the loss of my dad should be highly considered by her and the other attorney she is working with. I advise everyone who is considering hiring Samantha Bolton to handle their estate, do research on her background and the other attorney she is working with who she kept on as the estate attorney. I am asking anyone who want to file a grievance against Samantha Bolton, attorney post their grievances here.

Mr. Bernard assisted on a criminal case involving my son he was very detailed on the handling of the case,very prompt at returning phone calls. ( within a few hours) He answered all my questions and listened to my concerns, with all that he took a very good approach. He did say he would shoot for the best outcome he could. Even though the prosecutor handling the case tried to recommend the maximum punishment.

They don’t allow me to go it alone.

Awesome staff and lawyers

I had seen the sign driving through the town one day… Then my friend REALLY needed an Attorney the next week. She later told me they met her needs COMPLETELY! Says they were polite & made her feel they had her interest… FULLY!

Did not feel like my legal concerns concern them a very greatly. But to be honest, they did answer all of my questions. I wasn’t too keen the answers I got….

Very good attorney. Gets things done fast.

Great lawyers

Great Attorney

Same as Thomas

I used Butler to handle my late husband’s estate after another attorney made a huge mess of things. He and his paralegal, Tonya, were amazing! His fees were affordable and things were filed promptly and accurately. Thank you for getting things straightened out.

I wish I could give Butler Bernard zero stars. I hired him for a custody dispute a few years ago.

Good folks

Mr. Bernard was my attorney for a complicated case in Marion. His dedication to his clients goes above and beyond and he has extensive knowledge about the law. Not to mention if you have things in other counties to take care of he more than likely will know the right attorney for you in that area also. If you’re looking for an attorney in Crittenden county, AR then you’d be wasting your money to go through anyone else. Thanks again Mr. Bernard!

They do professional if anyone needs a lawyer contact them thanks