Arkansas Code Title 14. Local Government § 14-20-102. Fund for poor persons

(a)(1) There is hereby created on the books of the treasurer of each county in the state a fund to be used for the purpose of paying reasonable and necessary costs incurred in the defense of indigent persons accused of criminal offenses and in the representation of persons against whom involuntary admissions procedures for mental health or alcohol and narcotic commitments or criminal commitments have been brought, and for representation in civil and criminal matters of persons deemed incompetent by the court due to minority or mental incapacity, which have been brought in any circuit courts or city or county division of district courts, including, but not limited to, investigative expenses, expert witness fees, and legal fees.

(2) Where there are adequate unappropriated moneys in this fund, the quorum court may also provide for the use of the funds for the purpose of defraying the cost of the juvenile division of circuit court.

(3) Where there are adequate unappropriated moneys in this fund, the quorum court may also provide for the use of the funds for the purpose of defraying the cost of medical and dental costs incurred by the county for indigent defendants incarcerated in the county jail.

(4) The quorum court is authorized to supplement the fund by additional appropriation from the county general fund, and expenditures from the fund shall be made in the manner and amounts prescribed by the quorum court.