HB349 Summary

• Establishes a $25 service of process fee for civil cases in Houston County district and circuit courts when the sheriff serves documents requiring personal service.

• Increases the fee to $50 for service of process in matters pending or to be commenced in courts outside Alabama.

• Creates the Houston County Sheriff's Law Enforcement Fund to receive collected fees for law enforcement purposes including training, ammunition, uniforms, vehicles, travel, and equipment.

• Exempts the district attorney, law enforcement agencies, grand juries, and Houston County from paying the service of process fees.

• Allows courts to waive fees if payment would create substantial hardship, with verified statement required and approved by the court.