Alabama Senate passes ‘Speedy Trial Act’ by unanimous vote

MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – The Alabama Senate approved SB 178, also known as the “Speedy Trial Act,” on Thursday. The bill, drafted by Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall’s office, aims to expedite trials for violent criminal cases, reduce court backlogs, and provide swift justice for victims.

Marshall, who believes the legislation will bring fairness, efficiency, and swift justice to Alabama courts, was at the Alabama State House to watch the vote, which was unanimous.

“Today’s action by the Senate sends a strong message about our justice system: we are taking critical steps toward a safer, more efficient Alabama, where victims receive the justice they deserve and violent criminals are swiftly held accountable,” Marshall explained.

Currently, some of Alabama’s criminal cases take years to work their way through the judicial process before reaching a trial. There are several reasons for the delays, including a lack of judges available to hear the cases. Under SB 178, a system would be created to use retired judges. It would also provide resources for district attorney offices to try the cases.

Marshall says speedy trials are a constitutional right for defendants, but victims also deserve swift justice.

“You’ve seen multiple efforts to address violent crime in our state. The MACS program here in Montgomery that’s gone to find offenders that need to be taken off the street,” Marshall explained. “This is additional layer to the work that we’re trying to do, and so very pleased with the response of communities and law enforcement, victims’ advocates across the state.”

The legislation now moves on to the full Alabama House where the AG is urging swift passage of House Bill 307.

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