How is ‘abandonment’ defined in Arkansas family law?

In Arkansas family law, ‘abandonment’ is accurately defined as leaving a spouse or child without adequate support and without the intent to return. This definition encompasses the essential elements of abandonment in a familial context, where the lack of support and the absence of intention to reconnect signify a clear abandonment of responsibilities and relationships.

The focus on 'adequate support' highlights the legal obligations that are expected from a spouse or parent, emphasizing that abandonment is not merely about physical departure but also about the failure to provide emotional or financial support. Additionally, the element of 'intent to return' stresses the notion that abandonment is characterized by a desire to sever ties permanently rather than temporarily.

Other choices do not fully encapsulate the legal definition of abandonment. For instance, simply leaving without communication or moving out of state lacks the necessary components of support and intent. Similarly, failure to contact family for six months does not necessarily imply abandonment if support was still provided or if there was no intent to sever the familial relationship. Thus, option B provides the most comprehensive and accurate representation of abandonment in Arkansas family law.