Alabama § 12-15-221 - Modification, Extension or Termination of Orders of Custody or Probation Generally.

Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 12-15-221 — Modification, Extension or Termination of Orders of Custody or Probation Generally., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 12-15-221. Modification, Extension or Termination of Orders of Custody or Probation Generally.

(a) An order awarding legal custody or an order of probation made by the juvenile court in the case of a child may be modified, revoked, or extended on motion by:

(1) A child, whose legal custody has been transferred to a department, institution, agency, or person, requesting the juvenile court for a modification or termination of the order, alleging that the child is no longer in need of placement or probation and the department, institution, agency, or person has denied application for release of the child or has failed to act upon the application within a reasonable time; or

(2) A department, institution, agency, or person vested with legal custody or responsibility for probation, requesting the juvenile court for a modification, an extension, or a termination of the order on the grounds that the action is in the best interests of the child or necessary to safeguard the welfare of the child or the public interest.

(b) The juvenile court may dismiss the motions filed pursuant to subsection (a) if, after preliminary investigation, it finds that they are without substance. If the juvenile court is of the opinion that the order should be reviewed, upon due notice to all necessary parties as prescribed by rules of court, it may proceed to a hearing in the same manner and under the same safeguards provided for in this chapter for the issuance of the original order. It may thereupon terminate the order if it finds the child is no longer in need of care or rehabilitation or it may enter an order extending or modifying the original order if it finds this action necessary to safeguard the child or the public interest.

Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 12-15-221

What does Code of Alabama § 12-15-221 cover?

Section 12-15-221 ("Modification, Extension or Termination of Orders of Custody or Probation 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 § 12-15-221?

A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 12-15-221" (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 § 12-15-221 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.