AL SB358

Creates the position of senior status judge for retired circuit or district judges who wish to continue presiding over a reduced docket at one-quarter, one-third, or one-half rate.

Senior status judges receive full retirement benefits plus additional compensation equal to one-quarter, one-third, or one-half of the starting salary for circuit or district judges based on their elected docket level.

Requires requests to become a senior status judge to be approved by the Administrative Office of Courts and the appropriate presiding circuit judge, with approval valid for two-year periods subject to renewal.

Prohibits senior status judges from engaging in law practice and requires them to comply with Chapter 25 of Title 36 (Alabama Code), the Cannons of Judicial Ethics, and all applicable standards for regular judges.

Requires the Administrative Office of Courts to adopt rules governing case assignment to senior status judges before anyone may serve in this position.