HB573 Alabama 2012 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Lesley Vance
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2012
Title: Russell Co., (26th Judicial Circuit), pretrial diversion program, district attorney authorized to establish
Summary: HB573 creates a District Attorney–run pretrial diversion program in Russell County's 26th Judicial Circuit that can reduce or dismiss charges for eligible offenders who complete specified conditions.
What This Bill Does
The District Attorney may establish and supervise a pretrial diversion program, hire staff, and contract with other agencies. Offenders charged in the 26th Judicial Circuit may apply and be admitted at the DA's discretion, subject to certain ineligible offenses. If admitted, the offender enters a written agreement with conditions (such as restitution, treatment, education, and other programs) and pleads guilty for purposes of placement; successful completion can lead to dismissal of the case, while violations can lead to modification or termination and continued liability for costs and fines. Applicants pay an application fee and ongoing costs, with funds going to the DA's Solicitor Fund to cover program expenses, and the DA can seek grants or funding for the program.

Who It Affects
Offenders charged in the 26th Judicial Circuit (Russell County) who choose to participate and are approved by the District Attorney; they may face restitution and mandatory program costs, waivers, and potential dismissal if they complete the program.
The District Attorney's Office and its partners (law enforcement, Russell County Drug Court, Community Corrections, treatment providers) responsible for running, supervising, funding, and enforcing the pretrial diversion program.

Key Provisions
The District Attorney may establish a pretrial diversion program in the 26th Judicial Circuit, including evaluating offenders, determining eligibility, and requiring written agreements with waivers, restitution, and possible rehabilitation terms.
The program charges an application fee and other costs (up to $1,000 for felony cases, $750 for misdemeanors, $500 for traffic) paid into the District Attorney’s Solicitor Fund; fees may be reduced or waived for just cause, and funds fund program administration and related costs.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 24, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Russell County