The bill SB198 establishes the Alabama National Guard Legal Services Office by adding Chapters 2B and 2C to Title 31 of the Code of Alabama 1975. This new office will include various legal positions, such as state staff judge advocates for both the Army and Air National Guard, and outlines their responsibilities in providing legal advice on military justice, administrative law, and fiscal matters. The bill mandates the adoption of specific Army and Air Force regulations as guidelines for legal services, applicable during both federal and non-federal service. Additionally, it authorizes judge advocates and paralegals to perform notary actions under certain circumstances, enhancing the legal capabilities of the Alabama National Guard.

The bill also introduces new provisions to improve the legal assistance program for service members, their dependents, and retirees, including the appointment of the Alabama Staff Judge Advocate to oversee the program and the establishment of an Alabama National Guard Manual for Legal Assistance. Key insertions include responsibilities for the legal assistance associate general counsel to formulate preventive legal initiatives and maintain legal trackers for clients. The bill clarifies eligibility criteria for the Legal Assistance Program and specifies that services are provided at no cost, while also allowing for limitations during emergencies. Furthermore, it emphasizes coordination with the Alabama State Bar and clarifies the notarial powers of judge advocates and paralegals, ensuring that these provisions do not alter existing professional conduct standards. The act is set to take effect on October 1, 2025.