HB227 Summary

• Expands probate court jurisdiction to include name changes for minors, requiring parental or legal guardian consent, all persons with parental/legal rights to consent, and the minor's consent if 14 years or older, except in pending domestic relations cases in circuit court.

• Grants probate courts concurrent original and general jurisdiction with circuit courts over protective service proceedings under the Adult Protective Services Act of 1976.

• Authorizes probate judges who are members in good standing with the Alabama State Bar to issue elder abuse protection orders when designated by written standing order from the presiding circuit court judge.

• Allows removal of Adult Protective Services cases from probate court to circuit court by filing a notice of removal with the circuit court, serving all parties, and filing a copy with the probate court clerk.

• Becomes effective on the first day of the third month following passage and approval by the Governor or its otherwise becoming law.