Bill > HB84

This bill proposes a constitutional amendment that would allow the Judge of Probate in Covington County, Alabama, to handle certain legal cases that are typically heard by a circuit court, provided the judge is licensed to practice law in the state. This means that if a case is initially filed in the Covington County Probate Court and the judge is a licensed attorney, they can exercise "equity jurisdiction," which refers to the power to hear cases involving fairness and justice, similar to a circuit court judge. The cases would be treated as if they were filed in circuit court, and the standard rules of civil procedure would apply. This amendment is designed to be self-executing, meaning it will take effect automatically upon ratification, though the Legislature can pass additional laws to help implement it. The bill also outlines the process for putting this amendment to a vote of the people, including how it will be described on the ballot.

Government Affairs

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