Alabama § 15-2-20 - Application; Appeal from Denial; When Defendant’s Personal Presence Unnecessary.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 15-2-20 — Application; Appeal from Denial; When Defendant’s Personal Presence Unnecessary., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-2-20. Application; Appeal from Denial; When Defendant’s Personal Presence Unnecessary.
(a) Any person charged with an indictable offense may have his trial removed to another county, on making application to the court, setting forth specifically the reasons why he cannot have a fair and impartial trial in the county in which the indictment is found. The application must be sworn to by him and must be made as early as practicable before the trial, or it may be made after conviction upon a new trial being granted.
(b) The refusal of such application may, after final judgment, be reviewed and revised on appeal, and the Supreme Court or Court of Criminal Appeals shall reverse and remand or enter such judgment on the application as it may deem right without any presumption in favor of the judgment or ruling of the lower court on such application.
(c) If the defendant is in confinement, the application may be heard and determined without the personal presence of the defendant in court.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 15-2-20
What does Code of Alabama § 15-2-20 cover?
Section 15-2-20 ("Application; Appeal from Denial; When Defendant’s Personal Presence Unnecessary.") 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 § 15-2-20?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 15-2-20" (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 § 15-2-20 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.