AL SB440

Requires judges to recuse themselves from civil cases if a reasonable person would perceive impaired impartiality or there is serious objective probability of bias due to a substantial campaign contribution from a party to the case made in the immediately preceding election.

Creates rebuttable presumption that judges must recuse if a direct campaign contribution from a party exceeds 10% of total contributions in statewide appellate court races, 15% in circuit court races, or 25% in district court races, when the contribution was made when the case could foreseeably come before the judge.

Defines "party" to include the litigant and immediate family, holders of 5% or more of a business entity party, corporate affiliates or subsidiaries, attorneys for the party, and other lawyers in practice with the party's attorney.

Makes orders denying recusal motions appealable to the appropriate appellate court within 30 days, with trial court proceedings stayed during the appeal if the contribution threshold is met.

Repeals existing campaign contribution disclosure requirements for judges and attorneys under Sections 12-24-1 and 12-24-2 of the Alabama Code.