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HB 78

RELATING TO HOUSING.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Luke Evslin

HB 78 allows nonjury and select jury court proceedings in Baldwin County's branch courthouses, improving access and efficiency for local residents and officials.

Carried over to 2026 Regular Session.
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Bill Summary · HB 78

Summary of HB 78: Baldwin County Court Proceedings in Branch Courthouses

Bill Number: HB 78
Title: Baldwin County, provides for court proceedings in branch courthouses
Status: Enacted
Introduced: January 06, 2025
Classification: Bill
Subject: Baldwin County

Purpose and Intent

HB 78 aims to amend existing legislation regarding court proceedings in Baldwin County, specifically within the Twenty-eighth Judicial Circuit. The bill is designed to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of the judicial process by allowing certain court proceedings to be conducted in branch courthouses located in the cities of Foley and Fairhope.

Key Provisions

The bill introduces several important changes to Section 45-2-82.02 of the Code of Alabama 1975:

  1. Nonjury Court Proceedings:

    • Circuit and district court judges are authorized to conduct nonjury court proceedings in branch courthouses in Foley and Fairhope.
    • Each courthouse may host these proceedings for a maximum of 175 days per year.

  2. Jury Proceedings:

    • The presiding judge of the Twenty-eighth Judicial Circuit can issue a standing order to allow civil or criminal jury proceedings in branch courthouses.
    • Civil Jury Proceedings: Require approval from the circuit clerk and the presiding judge.
    • Criminal Jury Proceedings: Require approval from the circuit clerk, sheriff, district attorney, and the presiding judge.

  3. Immediate Effectiveness:

    • The act becomes effective immediately upon enactment, facilitating prompt implementation of the new provisions.

Impact

  • Judicial Efficiency: The bill is expected to improve the accessibility of court services for residents of Baldwin County by utilizing branch courthouses, thereby reducing travel time and wait times for court proceedings.
  • Local Governance: The legislation empowers local judges and officials to manage court proceedings more flexibly, adapting to the needs of the community.
  • Stakeholders Affected: The changes will primarily impact residents of Baldwin County who may need to attend court, as well as local judges, clerks, and law enforcement officials involved in the judicial process.

Procedural Timeline

  • January 06, 2025: Bill filed.
  • February 04, 2025: First reading and referral to the House Committee on Baldwin County Legislation.
  • February 13, 2025: Passed in the House and sent to the Senate.
  • May 14, 2025: Enrolled and delivered to the Governor for signature.
  • May 22, 2025: Bill enacted into law.

This summary provides an overview of HB 78, highlighting its purpose, key provisions, and the anticipated impact on the Baldwin County judicial system.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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