The proposed bill adds Sections 12-17-184.1 and 12-17-184.2 to the Code of Alabama 1975, establishing that when a prosecuting attorney provides legal advice to law enforcement officers or agencies regarding criminal and civil procedures, it is considered a prosecutorial function. The bill emphasizes the importance of open communication between prosecuting attorneys and law enforcement during investigations and charging processes, asserting that such discussions are essential for the fair application of criminal laws. The legislative findings included in Section 12-17-184.1 highlight the necessity of this collaboration and declare it a vital part of the prosecutorial role.

Additionally, the bill specifies that any legal advice given by a prosecuting attorney within their scope of authority on matters related to criminal procedure, civil procedure, criminal charges, or investigations is recognized as a prosecutorial function under Section 12-17-184.2. The act is set to take effect on June 1, 2024. There are no deletions from current law noted in the text of the bill.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 12-17-184, 12-17-184, 12-17-216, 36-21-55, 12-17-216