AL SB178

Creates the Speedy Trial Act authorizing the Chief Justice of the Alabama Supreme Court to appoint a sitting or retired circuit judge as a visiting judge for cases involving violent crimes upon request by the Attorney General or district attorney.

Chief Justice must decide on requests within 30 days and may consider fund availability; visiting judges serve until final adjudication of their appointed cases and receive full powers and jurisdiction of the respective judgeship.

Visiting judges receive all actual and necessary expenses approved by the Chief Justice; retired judges may receive compensation under Sections 12-18-10 or 12-18-61; counties must provide adequate courtroom space.

Establishes court reporter assignment hierarchy and allows visiting judges to conduct jury trials during scheduled jury weeks, with authority to empanel additional juries on prosecution motion and to supersede capital murder case jury restrictions if necessary.

Creates the Speedy Trial Fund in the State Treasury for exclusive use in paying expenses authorized by this section; becomes effective June 1, 2025.