Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall is commending the Alabama Legislature for passing HB307 by State Rep. Jim Hill (R-Moody) and State Sen. Will Barfoot (R-Pike Road) to help authorities across the state more efficiently and effectively process the ever-increasing backlog of violent crime cases across jurisdictions.
Under current state law, the Alabama Supreme Court has the authority to appoint special judges, but there is no formal process for prosecutors to request additional judicial resources to address the backlog.
The ‘Speedy Trial Act’ — backed by the AG’s office — allows district attorneys or the Attorney General to request temporary judicial appointments for specific backlogged violent crime cases.
Additionally, the bill establishes the Speedy Trial Fund, which ensures the availability of financial resources for special judges, court reporters, and juries, removing barriers that often cause trial delays.
“This legislation is another step towards making Alabama safer by holding violent offenders accountable and ensuring that more victims receive timely justice,” Marshall said.
“I applaud the Legislature for passing this bill with bipartisan support. It will deliver long-overdue efficiency to our courts, help restore public confidence in our criminal justice system, and most importantly, show that crime victims have not been forgotten. My Office will be ready on Day 1 to make our own request for speedy trials in a few prominent cases that have been needlessly delayed.”
“I am grateful to our bill sponsors, as well as Speaker Ledbetter and Pro Tem Gudger, for making this a priority. I am also especially grateful to Chief Justice Sarah Stewart for her thoughtful input during the drafting of this bill.
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Prior to the passage of the legislation, Marshall argued that victims of violent crime are those who are truly in need of a prompt trial.
“Speedy trials are a constitutional guarantee for a defendant, but no one deserves swift justice more than a crime victim,” said Marshall. “When violent criminals remain in our communities due to prolonged trial delays, the risk of reoffending rises. And the longer a criminal case sits, the assurance of justice steadily diminishes.
Marshall, the state’s top law enforcement official, also said the legislation is about more than speed.
“It’s about justice, fairness, and ensuring our courts serve the people effectively. By holding violent offenders accountable without needless delays, we send a clear message: Alabama takes public safety seriously.”
The Speedy Trial Act will now head to the desk of Governor Kay Ivey.
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
