Alabama § 15-12-42 - Powers and Duties.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 15-12-42 — Powers and Duties., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-12-42. Powers and Duties.
The public defender shall have the following powers and duties:
(1) Within his or her geographic jurisdiction, the public defender shall provide indigent defense services as defined in Section 15-12-1 to indigent defendants.
(2) The public defender, at the request and with the consent of a municipal governing body and the office, shall represent indigent defendants in a municipal court within his or her geographic jurisdiction. The municipality shall reimburse the office of the public defender for the costs associated with the services rendered.
(3) The public defender, with consent of the director, may represent an indigent defendant in a state appellate court.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 15-12-42
What does Code of Alabama § 15-12-42 cover?
Section 15-12-42 ("Powers and Duties.") 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 § 15-12-42?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 15-12-42" (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 § 15-12-42 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.