Alabama § 15-17-5 - Grounds for Granting New Trials; Costs Thereof.

Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 15-17-5 — Grounds for Granting New Trials; Costs Thereof., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 15-17-5. Grounds for Granting New Trials; Costs Thereof.

(a) On motion filed within 30 days from entry of judgment, a new trial may be granted for the following grounds:

(1) Irregularity in the proceedings of the court, jury or state or any order of court or abuse of discretion by which the defendant was prevented from having a fair trial;

(2) Misconduct of the jury or state;

(3) Accident or surprise which ordinary prudence could not have guarded against;

(4) That the verdict or decision is not sustained beyond a reasonable doubt or is contrary to law;

(5) Newly discovered evidence, material for the party applying, which he could not with reasonable diligence have discovered and produced at the trial; and

(6) Error of law occurring at the trial properly preserved by the party making the application.

(b) The court, in granting new trials, may allow the same at the costs of the party applying therefor or in the costs abiding the event of the case, or a portion of the costs, as the justice and equity of the case may require, taking into consideration the causes which may make such new trial necessary.

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 15-17-5

What does Code of Alabama § 15-17-5 cover?

Section 15-17-5 ("Grounds for Granting New Trials; Costs Thereof.") 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 § 15-17-5?

A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 15-17-5" (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 § 15-17-5 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.