AL SB414

Amends Section 12-21-300 of the Alabama Code to allow certificates of analysis to be used instead of direct testimony in civil forfeiture cases related to drugs.

Certificates of analysis from Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences laboratories or federally-authorized criminalistics laboratories are admissible as evidence in criminal cases, civil forfeiture cases, and juvenile or family court cases of a criminal nature.

Certificates must contain the date and time evidence was delivered, names of persons delivering and receiving it, evidence description, examination type requested, examiner's name, examination dates, and results.

Certificates must include the facility name and address and be signed and sworn as true and correct under penalty of law by the person conducting the examination or analysis.

The act becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.