Alabama § 10A-1-7.21 - Transaction of Business Without Registration; Generally.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 10A-1-7.21 — Transaction of Business Without Registration; Generally., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 10A-1-7.21. Transaction of Business Without Registration; Generally.
(a) A foreign entity transacting business in this state, except a corporation or other organization formed pursuant to federal law, may not maintain any action, suit, or proceeding in any court of this state until it has registered in this state.
(b) The failure of a foreign entity to register in this state does not impair the validity of any contract or act of the foreign entity or prevent the foreign entity from defending any action, suit, or proceeding in any court of this state.
(c) A foreign entity, by transacting business in this state without registration, shall be deemed to consent to service of process with respect to causes of action arising out of business transacted in this state, or to service of any notice or demand required or permitted by law, by registered mail addressed to the foreign entity at the office required to be maintained in the state or other jurisdiction where it is organized, or, if not so required, at the principal office of the entity, or by serving the entity by any method permitted under Sections 10A-1-5.35 and 10A-1-5.36.
(d) The liability of an owner or owners of a foreign entity is governed by the laws of the state or other jurisdictions where it is organized, and any limitations on that liability are not waived solely by reason of having transacted business in Alabama without registration.
(e) This division applies to a foreign entity transacting business in this state without registering with the Secretary of State.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 10A-1-7.21
What does Code of Alabama § 10A-1-7.21 cover?
Section 10A-1-7.21 ("Transaction of Business Without Registration; Generally.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Alabama § 10A-1-7.21?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 10A-1-7.21" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Alabama law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.
How does Alabama § 10A-1-7.21 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.