Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has expressed support for the introduction of Senate Bill 176 and House Bill 307, collectively known as the Speedy Trial Act. This legislation is designed to expedite trials for violent criminal cases, aiming to reduce court backlogs and provide timely justice for victims. The bills are sponsored by Senator Will Barfoot (R-Pike Road) and Representative Jim Hill (R-Moody), who chair the Senate and House Judiciary Committees, respectively.
Marshall emphasized the importance of swift justice for crime victims, stating, “Speedy trials are a constitutional guarantee for a defendant, but no one deserves swift justice more than a crime victim.” He noted that delays in trials could increase the risk of reoffending by violent criminals and diminish the assurance of justice over time. He described the proposed legislation as a straightforward solution to this issue.
Chief Justice Sarah Stewart acknowledged Marshall's efforts to address the backlog in criminal cases. She mentioned ongoing collaboration with judges, law enforcement, district attorneys, and public defenders to prepare these cases for trial. Stewart highlighted that ensuring safety for Alabama families is a key initiative of their administration.
Currently, Alabama law permits the state Supreme Court to appoint special judges but lacks a dedicated mechanism to allocate additional judicial resources specifically for violent crime case backlogs. Senate Bill 176 and House Bill 307 aim to address this gap efficiently and cost-effectively.
The proposed Act also includes provisions for establishing a Speedy Trial Fund. This fund would ensure financial resources are available for special judges, court reporters, and additional juries, thereby preventing logistical delays in moving trials forward.
Marshall further stated that the legislation focuses on "justice, fairness," and effective service by courts. He added that holding violent offenders accountable without unnecessary delays sends a clear message about Alabama's commitment to public safety.
The sponsorship by Senator Barfoot and Representative Hill signifies an effort towards creating a safer Alabama where victims receive deserved justice promptly while ensuring violent criminals face accountability swiftly.