Alabama House Bill HB305

Alabama 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/26
• Refer: 1/21/26
• Report Pass: 2/4/26

Caption

Juries; special venire in capital felony cases allowed, voire dire procedures and alternate juror procedures further provided for, procedures when there are not enough qualified jurors present established

Impact

The potential impact of HB305 on state laws revolves around judicial discretion and the efficiency of jury selection in capital cases. By allowing courts the authority to summon a special venire, the bill aims to address situations where there are insufficient jurors present for a trial. The measures outlined in the bill are positioned to standardize and streamline the juror selection process, which may lead to more timely trials—especially critical in capital cases where the stakes and public interest are particularly high.

Summary

House Bill 305 seeks to amend Title 12, Chapter 16 of the Code of Alabama, modifying jury selection procedures, particularly in capital felony cases. This bill removes the existing prohibition against ordering a special venire for trials involving capital felonies, thereby allowing courts discretionary power to summon jurors specifically for these cases. The proposed legislation also establishes detailed requirements for voir dire questioning and the procedures for striking jurors for cause, including administering oaths and ensuring fair questioning opportunities for both parties involved in the trial.

Contention

Despite its intended efficiencies, the bill could raise concerns regarding the fairness and impartiality of the jury selection process. Critics may argue that allowing special venires could affect the random nature of jury composition, potentially leading to biases or an unbalanced representation within juries. Legal experts and advocates might express concerns over the necessity for strict adherence to the proposed procedures during voir dire to maintain the integrity of juror impartiality and the overall judicial process.