HGD Law Firm is proud to share that Alabama House Bill 60 has officially been signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey, marking an important advancement in legal protections for individuals serving on active military duty.
The legislation originated with an initial draft prepared by HGD attorney Adam Parker after discussions with Representative Ontario Tillman of Bessemer. HB 60 ultimately passed unanimously in both the Alabama House and Senate before being signed into law last week.
The new law amends Alabama’s criminal and civil procedure rules by requiring courts to grant a continuance when a party, attorney, or witness is serving on active military duty. The legislation was modeled after an existing Georgia law and is designed to ensure that servicemembers are not placed at a disadvantage while fulfilling their military responsibilities.
For Parker, the legislation carries personal significance beyond the legal profession.
“This bill was important to me because I serve as a Judge Advocate in the Air Force Reserve and am often required to complete military duty during the summer,” Parker said. “Servicemembers should not have to choose between fulfilling their military obligations and protecting their legal rights.”
As both an attorney and a military officer, Parker understands firsthand the challenges that can arise when military obligations conflict with court schedules and legal proceedings. The new law provides clarity and consistency for courts across Alabama while helping protect the rights of those serving our country.
HGD Law Firm is honored to have played a role in legislation that supports Alabama service members, attorneys, witnesses, and litigants who are called to active duty. We extend our appreciation to Representative Ontario Tillman, Governor Kay Ivey, and all members of the Alabama Legislature who supported the bill’s passage.
This legislation reflects an important commitment to ensuring that military service and civic responsibility can coexist without unnecessary legal hardship.
