This bill amends Section 45-35-83.83 of the Code of Alabama 1975, specifically concerning the appointment and compensation of temporary judges of probate in Houston County. The key changes include extending the maximum term a temporary judge can serve from 90 days to 180 days, while allowing for successive appointments, but limiting their total service to no more than 200 days in a fiscal year. Additionally, the bill clarifies that temporary judges will preside over hearings and establishes eligibility criteria for appointment, which includes being a qualified employee of the court licensed to practice law in Alabama.

Furthermore, the compensation for temporary judges is revised from fifty dollars ($50) per hearing to five hundred dollars ($500) per hearing. However, if the temporary judge is an employee of the court, they will not receive additional compensation beyond their established pay plan. The bill also includes provisions that protect the regularly elected judge of probate and their surety from liability for the actions of temporary judges. This act is set to take effect on October 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 45-35-83