Alabama § 15-18-86 - Procedure When Condemned Female Believed Pregnant.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 15-18-86 — Procedure When Condemned Female Believed Pregnant., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-18-86. Procedure When Condemned Female Believed Pregnant.
(a) If there is reason to believe that a female convict is pregnant, the sheriff must, with the concurrence of a judge of the circuit court, summon a jury of six disinterested persons, as many of whom must be physicians as practicable. The sheriff must also give notice to the district attorney or, in his absence, to any attorney who may be appointed by a circuit judge to represent the state and who has authority to issue subpoenas for witnesses.
(b) The jury, under the direction of the sheriff or officer acting in his place, must proceed to ascertain the fact of pregnancy and must state their conclusion in writing, signed by them and the sheriff. If such jury is of opinion, and so find, that the convict is with child, the sheriff or officer acting in his place must suspend the execution of the sentence and transmit the finding of the jury to the Governor.
(c) Whenever the Governor is satisfied that such convict is no longer with child, he must issue his warrant to the sheriff appointing a day for her to be executed according to her sentence, and the sheriff or other officer must execute the sentence of the law on the day so appointed.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 15-18-86
What does Code of Alabama § 15-18-86 cover?
Section 15-18-86 ("Procedure When Condemned Female Believed Pregnant.") 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 § 15-18-86?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 15-18-86" (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 § 15-18-86 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.