Alabama § 15-21-8 - Writ to Be Granted Without Delay; to Whom Writ Returnable.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 15-21-8 — Writ to Be Granted Without Delay; to Whom Writ Returnable., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 15-21-8. Writ to Be Granted Without Delay; to Whom Writ Returnable.
(a) The judge to whom the application for a writ of habeas corpus is made must grant the same without delay, unless it appears from the petition itself or from the documents thereunto annexed that the person imprisoned or restrained is not entitled to the benefit of the writ under the provisions of this chapter.
(b) When the person is confined in the penitentiary, the writ must be made returnable before the circuit court of the county in which the convict is confined, but if the writ is granted more than 10 days before the time fixed for the holding of such court, it must be made returnable before the nearest circuit court judge. When a person is a patient or confined in any hospital in the state, the writ must be made returnable before the circuit court of the county in which the hospital is located in which he is so confined. In all other cases, the writ must be made returnable before the officer by whom it is granted.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 15-21-8
What does Code of Alabama § 15-21-8 cover?
Section 15-21-8 ("Writ to Be Granted Without Delay; to Whom Writ Returnable.") 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 § 15-21-8?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 15-21-8" (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 § 15-21-8 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.