Alabama SB53 requires courts to continue criminal and civil cases when parties, attorneys, or witnesses are absent due to military duty.

Alabama SB53 mandates that courts must continue criminal and civil cases when a party, their leading attorney, or a witness is absent due to active military duty. In criminal cases, bail must be set if the state is granted a continuance, with exceptions for violent and capital offenses. The Alabama Supreme Court is required to amend its rules to align with these provisions. The act will take effect on October 1, 2026.

Alabama SB53 requires courts to continue criminal and civil cases when parties, attorneys, or witnesses are absent due to military duty.

Alabama SB53 mandates that courts must continue criminal and civil cases when a party, their leading attorney, or a witness is absent due to active military duty. In criminal cases, bail must be set if the state is granted a continuance, with exceptions for violent and capital offenses. The Alabama Supreme Court is required to amend its rules to align with these provisions. The act will take effect on October 1, 2026.