The bill amends Section 15-27-5 of the Code of Alabama 1975 to update the procedures for expungements. Key changes include extending the time frame for a hearing from 14 days to 30 days if an objection is filed by the prosecuting authority or victim. Additionally, the bill introduces a requirement for the court to notify both the victim and the prosecuting authority of the hearing date. It also allows the court to set a hearing even if no objections are filed, and it specifies that the court must consider various factors, such as the nature of the offense and evidence of rehabilitation, when making its determination.

Furthermore, the bill clarifies that there is no inherent right to expungement, and the court has discretion over the number of cases that may be expunged. It replaces the term "certiorari review" with "appeal" regarding the court's ruling, which can only be reversed if there is an abuse of discretion. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 15-27-5, 15-27-5
Engrossed: 15-27-5, 15-27-5
Enrolled: 15-27-5, 15-27-5