AL HB457

Amends Section 35-9A-461 of the Alabama Code to require judges to set a hearing date in eviction or unlawful detainer actions within 45 days after the date an answer was filed or the final date to file an answer.

Eviction actions remain entitled to precedence in scheduling over all other civil cases under existing law.

Judges who fail to comply with the 45-day hearing requirement may be subject to a complaint before the Judicial Inquiry Commission, and failure to set the case as required constitutes sufficient grounds for sanctions.

Maintains existing provisions governing service of process, appeals, writs of possession or restitution, and automatic stay periods in eviction actions.

Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor.