As some cities’ backlogs across the state continue to grow, Alabama Attorney Steve Marshall has issued his full endorsement of legislation that could solve the issue and lead to faster incarceration of violent criminals.
In Birmingham, city officials recently raised concern that some murder trials in Jefferson County are taking as long as three to four years to reach the courtroom.
The Speedy Trial Act, is being carried by the chairman of the Alabama House and Senate Judiciary committees, State Sen. Will Barfoot (R-Pike Road) and State Rep. Jim Hill (R-Moody).
While Alabama law currently allows the state Supreme Court to appoint special judges, there is no dedicated mechanism to request additional judicial resources specifically to address backlogs in violent crime cases. SB176 and HB307 fill this gap efficiently and cost-effectively.
RELATED: Birmingham leaders warn backlog of criminal court cases impacting public safety
The legislation also establishes the Speedy Trial Fund, ensuring financial resources are available to cover special judges, court reporters, and additional juries — preventing logistical delays and ensuring trials move forward without hindrance.
“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. Senate Bill 176 and House Bill 307, the Speedy Trial Act, offer a simple solution to a distinct problem.”
Marshall, the state’s top law enforcement official, says 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.”
Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Sarah Stewart said she is fully in unison with Marshall for working to solve the problem.
“We appreciate the Attorney General taking positive steps to help us address the criminal case backlog,” said Stewart. “We have been collaborating with our presiding judges, law enforcement, district attorneys, and public defenders’ offices to coordinate getting these cases ready for trial. Keeping Alabama families safe in their homes and businesses is the primary initiative of our administration.”
There are a number of law enforcement-related bills being considered in the Alabama House and Senate currently. A new bill recently introduced by State Rep. Juandalynn Givan (D-Birmingham) and endorsed by Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter would require municipalities to report the number of sworn law enforcement officers to the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) and the Attorney General.
Austen Shipley is the News Director for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on X @ShipleyAusten
