Montgomery County Judge of Probate salary adjusted to match circuit judges

House Bill 602, introduced in Alabama on April 22, 2025, aims to significantly adjust the compensation structure for the Montgomery County Judge of Probate. The bill proposes that judges who have served a minimum of six full years will receive a salary equivalent to that of a circuit judge with the same tenure, effectively replacing any other compensation currently provided by law.

This legislative move is designed to address concerns regarding the pay disparity between probate judges and their circuit counterparts, which has been a point of contention among legal professionals in the state. Proponents argue that equalizing salaries will not only enhance the appeal of the probate judge position but also ensure that experienced judges are fairly compensated for their service.

The bill is set to take effect on June 1, 2025, pending approval. While it has garnered support from various legal advocacy groups, some critics have raised concerns about the financial implications for the county budget, questioning whether the increased salaries could strain local resources.

As discussions continue, the outcome of House Bill 602 could reshape the landscape of judicial compensation in Alabama, potentially influencing recruitment and retention of qualified judges in Montgomery County. The bill's progress will be closely monitored as it moves through the legislative process, with stakeholders eager to see how it will impact the judicial system and local governance.