Bill > SB198

This bill establishes a comprehensive Legal Services Office and Legal Assistance Program for the Alabama National Guard, creating a structured framework for providing legal support to National Guard members, employees, retirees, and their dependents. The bill defines the organizational structure, including roles for state staff judge advocates, a General Counsel, and various associate general counsels who will oversee legal services across multiple domains such as military justice, administrative law, contract law, and operational law. The Legal Assistance Program is designed to support military readiness, morale, and retention by helping eligible clients manage personal legal affairs at no cost, with a focus on preventive law initiatives. The program will provide legal services in accordance with federal military regulations while maintaining flexibility to adapt to state-specific needs, and will ensure that judge advocates and legal personnel are professionally trained, maintain high ethical standards, and receive ongoing legal education. The bill also establishes provisions for notarial services, confidentiality, and logistical support for legal offices, including private workspaces, necessary technology, and resources to effectively carry out legal services. The legislation will become effective on October 1, 2025, and aims to create a robust, professional legal support system for the Alabama National Guard.

Military Affairs and Security

https://alison.legislature.state.al.us/bill-search