AL HB537

Amends Section 15-11-1 of the Alabama Code to allow a pretrial detention hearing under Section 15-13-3 to satisfy a defendant's right to a preliminary hearing for felony charges.

Maintains existing law that defendants charged with felonies have an absolute right to a preliminary hearing within 30 days of arrest upon demand.

Provides that a defendant's failure or refusal to appear at a preliminary hearing or absence from the state does not delay or invalidate indictment.

Becomes effective October 1, 2025.