Bill > HB43

This bill modifies Alabama's criminal procedure law regarding split sentencing, expanding the existing options for judges when sentencing certain felony offenders. Specifically, the bill allows judges to impose split sentences for defendants convicted of Class A, B, or C felonies with sentences up to 30 years (previously limited to 20 years). Under the new provisions, for sentences between 20 and 30 years, judges can now require defendants to serve a minimum of 10 years in confinement, with the remainder of the sentence suspended and the defendant placed on probation. The bill explicitly states that this minimum 10-year confinement period cannot be served in a county jail and cannot be altered or suspended by the court. Additionally, the bill adds a new optional probation condition allowing courts to require completion of accountability courts, such as drug court, veterans court, mental health court, or theft court. The changes do not apply to sex offenses involving children. The bill is set to become effective on October 1, 2025, providing a clear timeline for implementation of these new sentencing guidelines.

Justice

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