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1. Where are you located?

Hoover Municipal Court is located in the Hoover Public Safety Center at 2020 Valleydale Road, Hoover, AL 35244. This is near the intersection of Hwy 31 and Valleydale Road. Map

2. I would like to see court records. How do I gain access?

Simply fill out a request for records and present it at our court window. Our court records are public and may be inspected at no charge. If you need copies, we do have to charge fees as set by the Administrative Director of Courts. The fees are currently $5 total for the first 20 pages, and then an additional $0.50 per page for every page after the first 20. If you need a copy certified, there will be an additional charge of $5 per page. Request for Records Form

3. What is my case number? Is it the number on my ticket?

The number on your ticket is a citation number. That number is used by the police department to track citations. We can also look up your case by that number. It is not your case number, however, please contact the court to obtain your case number.

4. Why is my driver's license suspended?

Your driver's license could be suspended for a variety of reasons, including points, failing to appear on a traffic citation, or conviction for an offense that requires mandatory suspension. You will need to check with ALEA Department of Public Safety for more specific information on your driver's license.

5. Is there any way to keep a charge off my record?

There are multiple ways. If you fight a criminal charge and are found not guilty, that adjudication will be reflected on your arrest record. If you received a traffic citation for a moving violation, you may be eligible for Defensive Driving School. Upon completion of driving school, the charge against you would be dismissed. If you reach an agreement with the prosecutor, he may agree to have the charge dismissed or not processed. Based on certain age-related criteria, you may be eligible for youthful offender status. Traffic Violations

6. How many years will the charge stay on my record?

The charge will stay on your records indefintley unless you qualify for and successfully complete an expungement process.

7. I wish to just plead guilty and pay my fine. Will the court allow me to do this?

Under Rule 20 of the Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration magistrates are allowed to accept guilty pleas on minor traffic violations. These cases are listed on the Schedule of Fines and should be paid before your court date (which is listed at the bottom of your citation). If your citation is not listed on the Schedule of Fines then a court appearance is required. You may call our office at 205-444-7526 to find out more information about your case. Schedule of Fines

8. Do I need an attorney?

The court cannot offer legal advice; as such, we are precluded from making a determination about what would be in your best interests. However, you do have the right to an attorney. You may hire one if you wish, and one may be appointed at no cost to you upon your request if you are determined financially unable to provide one for yourself. If you feel you might need a court appointed attorney, please fill out an Indigent Defense Affidavit. You will need to sign this form under oath in front of a court officer. Court Attorneys

9. How do I get a court-appointed attorney?

You can apply for a court-appointed attorney when you appear in court. The judge will review your application to determine if you are eligible. Eligibility is based on financial need. Indigent Defense Affidavit

10. How do I get a jury trial?

Municipal courts in Alabama do not hold jury trials. The State of Alabama safeguards your right to a jury trial by allowing any defendant convicted in municipal court to appeal to the appropriate Circuit Court, where that defendant can receive a full jury trial.

11. I was found guilty. How do I appeal?

See our section on appeals. Please note that you only have 14 days from your date of judgment to complete an appeal, or your appeal will be barred. Appeals

12. Will I be going to jail if found guilty?

Hoover Municipal Court is a criminal court, and the vast majority of offenses we handle carry potential jail time. The judge will assess each case individually before determining the appropriate punishment.