Alabama § 12-12-32 - Criminal Jurisdiction Generally.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 12-12-32 — Criminal Jurisdiction Generally., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12-12-32. Criminal Jurisdiction Generally.
(a) Misdemeanors. The district court shall have exclusive original trial jurisdiction over prosecutions of all offenses defined by law or ordinance as misdemeanors, except:
(1) Prosecutions by municipalities having municipal courts;
(2) Any such prosecution which also involves a felony offense which is within the exclusive jurisdiction of the circuit court, except as the district court is empowered to hold preliminary hearings with respect to felonies and to receive guilty pleas as provided in subsection (b) of this section; and
(3) Any misdemeanor for which an indictment has been returned by a grand jury.
(b) Felonies.
(1) The district court may exercise original jurisdiction concurrent with the circuit court to receive pleas of guilty in prosecutions of offenses defined by law as felonies not punishable by sentence of death.
(2) The district court shall have jurisdiction to hold preliminary hearings in prosecutions for felonies as provided for in Title 15 of this code.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 12-12-32
What does Code of Alabama § 12-12-32 cover?
Section 12-12-32 ("Criminal Jurisdiction 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 § 12-12-32?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 12-12-32" (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 § 12-12-32 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.