This summary is not the rule. The rule text controls.
Courts keep records and evidence from criminal cases for a set amount of time. The Alabama Supreme Court decides exactly how long different types of records and evidence must be kept, and this is written down in an official schedule.
Once that time period is up, the court can destroy the records or evidence, following whatever the approved schedule says. This system helps courts manage storage and paperwork while still making sure records stay available as long as they might be needed, such as for appeals or other legal reasons.
If you are involved in a case and need certain records, it helps to know that they won't be kept forever. Checking on retention timelines early can prevent problems later if you need to request copies of documents or evidence from your case.
