There’s still time for amnesty in Birmingham court, but there’s something you need to know

City officials said the initiative aims to help residents address unresolved court issues while also reducing the court’s backlog of outstanding warrants.

There’s still time for amnesty in Birmingham court, but there’s something you need to know

Time is running out to take advantage of the Birmingham Municipal Court’s amnesty month. With the initiative set to conclude on June 30, residents have roughly three weeks left to resolve outstanding traffic and parking tickets or address active warrants without the threat of arrest.

What You Need to Know

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin emphasized that the program is designed to provide residents with a path to compliance, second chances, and the opportunity to get their affairs in order. “This whole month of June, amnesty month is about not just compassion, but giving second chances and opportunity for people to get things right,” Woodfin stated on Facebook.

Throughout June, individuals can visit the court between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, to settle moving violations—such as speeding or running stop signs—or to clear up probation compliance issues and payment plans. Presiding Judge LaResha Cade-Spearman noted that the initiative aims to boost judicial efficiency while offering a constructive way for citizens to re-engage with the court system.

Eligibility and Restrictions

To participate, individuals must present a valid ID. Warrants can be cleared by paying original fines and costs in full, establishing or reinstating a payment plan, or reconnecting with court-ordered programs. While parking tickets can be resolved in person, they can also be handled online at www.birminghamal.gov/parksmart.

However, the amnesty program is not universal. Mayor Woodfin clarified that warrants related to domestic violence, driving under the influence (DUI), and code or zoning violations are strictly excluded from the program. Any attempts to use the amnesty window for these specific offenses remain subject to standard legal enforcement.

A History of Success

Amnesty programs have a proven track record in Birmingham, dating back to 2008 under former Mayor Larry Langford. These initiatives have consistently drawn large crowds of residents looking to clear their records, including a notable 2010 effort that resulted in the collection of more than $950,000.

“If you’ve got an issue with the outstanding warrant related to any of those things except DUI or domestic violence, come down here and handle your business,” Woodfin urged. “So you can drive without having to worry about being pulled over. So you can get a job, so you can get your license reinstated.”

For further details on eligibility or specific case questions, contact the Birmingham Municipal Court at (205) 254-2161.