HB617 Alabama 2012 Session

Updated Feb 27, 2026

Notable

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Steve ClouseRepresentative
Republican
Co-Sponsors: Paul W. Lee Donnie Chesteen Dexter Grimsley
Session: Regular Session 2012
Title: Dothan, pretrial diversion program, city authorized to establish
Summary: Allows the City of Dothan to create a discretionary pretrial diversion program with standards, fees, and conditions for offenders charged in the city.
What This Bill Does
It authorizes the City of Dothan to establish and operate a pretrial diversion program under city control. Admission to the program is at the sole discretion of the city attorney, and certain offenses are ineligible (e.g., violent crimes, eluding police, weapons offenses, DUI with serious injury, and offenses by public officials or CDL holders). Participants sign a written agreement detailing conditions (treatment, education, restitution, supervision fees, and other requirements) and may be required to pay an application fee and ongoing costs. Successful completion can lead to reduced or dismissed charges; but if not completed or terminated, the court can impose punishment and remains responsible for the underlying costs and court fees.

Who It Affects
Offenders charged with crimes in the City of Dothan; they may apply to join the program if approved by the city attorney and must meet conditions, including potential fees and restitution.
The City of Dothan, its city attorney, supervising agencies, and the Dothan Municipal Court; they will administer the program, decide admissions, collect fees, enforce conditions, and handle court disposition and jurisdiction.

Key Provisions
Section 2: City of Dothan may establish a pretrial diversion program and contract for services; city retains necessary powers.
Section 3-4: Offenders may apply; admission is at the sole discretion of the city attorney; certain offenses are ineligible for admittance.
Section 5-7: Written agreement required before participation; permits a wide range of conditions (treatment, education, employment, restitution, drug testing, etc.); allows appeal of denial to the municipal court.
Section 8-9: Sets application fees by offense type, allows waivers for indigency, and directs fees to the city general fund; fees collected by court clerk.
Section 10: Court procedures for approval, deferred punishment during the program, and disposition upon completion or termination; offender remains liable for costs.
Section 11: City attorney may modify, continue, or terminate the program for violations; waivers possible for good cause.
Section 12: Liability disclaimer for city and providers; no liability for conduct of offenders in the program.
Section 13-14: Severability and immediate effectiveness upon governor's approval.

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