Alabama § 13A-5-39 - Definitions.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 13A-5-39 — Definitions., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 13A-5-39. Definitions.
As used in this article, these terms shall be defined as follows:
(1) CAPITAL OFFENSE. An offense for which a defendant shall be punished by a sentence of death or life imprisonment without parole, or in the case of a defendant who establishes that he or she was under the age of 18 years at the time of the capital offense, life imprisonment, or life imprisonment without parole, according to the provisions of this article.
(2) DURING. The term as used in Section 13A-5-40(a) means in the course of or in connection with the commission of, or in immediate flight from the commission of the underlying felony or attempt thereof.
(3) EXPLOSIVES and EXPLOSION. The terms shall have the meanings provided in Section 13A-7-40(2) and (3).
(4) BURDEN OF INTERJECTING THE ISSUE. Shall be defined as provided in Section 13A-1-2(14).
(5) MURDER and MURDER BY THE DEFENDANT. Shall be defined as provided in Section 13A-5-40(b).
(6) PREVIOUSLY CONVICTED and PRIOR CRIMINAL ACTIVITY. As used in Sections 13A-5-49(2) and 13A-5-51(1), these terms refer to events occurring before the date of the sentence hearing.
(7) UNDER SENTENCE OF IMPRISONMENT. As used in Section 13A-5-49(1), the term means while serving a term of imprisonment, while under a suspended sentence, while on probation or parole, or while on work release, furlough, escape, or any other type of release or freedom while or after serving a term of imprisonment, other than unconditional release and freedom after expiration of the term of sentence.
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 13A-5-39
What does Code of Alabama § 13A-5-39 cover?
Section 13A-5-39 ("Definitions.") 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 § 13A-5-39?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 13A-5-39" (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 § 13A-5-39 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.