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AL HB32

Bill

Status

Introduced

2/7/2017

Primary Sponsor

Christopher England

Click for details

Origin

House of Representatives

Regular Session 2017

AI Summary

HB32 Summary

  • Requires a verdict of death in capital cases to be based on a unanimous vote of all jurors, replacing the current requirement of at least 10 jurors.

  • Prohibits trial courts from overriding a jury verdict in capital cases; courts must impose the sentence recommended by the jury.

  • Changes jury verdicts from "advisory" to binding verdicts in capital sentencing hearings.

  • Maintains the requirement for separate sentencing hearings after conviction on capital offenses, with evidence presented on aggravating and mitigating circumstances.

  • Becomes effective immediately upon passage and approval by the Governor.

Legislative Description

Capital cases, sentencing, court prohibited from overriding jury verdict, unanimous vote of jury to recommend death, Secs. 13A-5-45, 13A-5-46, 13A-5-47 am'd.

Criminal Law and Procedure

Last Action

England motion to Indefinitely Postpone adopted Voice Vote

4/4/2017

Committee Referrals

Judiciary2/7/2017

Full Bill Text

No bill text available