Opinion No.

The Honorable Robert N. Jeffrey State Representative 18 Charlotte Ann Camden, AR 71701-9542

Dear Representative Jeffrey:

I am writing in response to your request for my opinion on the following questions:

1. Is it permissible under Arkansas law or the Arkansas or United States Constitutions for a circuit or district court to require as a condition precedent to a sentence of probation the payment of court costs and/or fines?

2. Does a circuit or district court have discretion to refuse to sentence a defendant to probation pursuant to a plea agreement where the only stated reason for rejection of…