Bill > SB223

This bill expands the legal procedures for expungement (the process of removing criminal records) in Alabama, primarily focusing on nonviolent felony offenses. The bill allows individuals to petition for expungement under several circumstances, including when criminal charges are dismissed with prejudice, no-billed by a grand jury, result in a not guilty verdict, or are dismissed after successfully completing specialized court programs like drug court or veterans court. A new provision specifically enables individuals who can prove they were victims of human trafficking to seek expungement of felonies committed during their trafficking period. The bill also creates a pathway for individuals with certain nonviolent Class C or Class D felony convictions to seek expungement, provided they meet specific conditions such as having no additional arrests in the past five years, not having committed a sex offense or offense involving moral turpitude, and meeting other eligibility requirements. The expungement process requires filing a petition in the criminal division of the circuit court where the charges were originally filed, and certain records may still be disclosed to criminal justice agencies, prosecutors, and other specified entities. The law is set to become effective on October 1, 2025, giving time for implementation and preparation.

Justice

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