To domesticate a subpoena in Alabama, file your foreign subpoena with the circuit court clerk, include counsel contact info, and allow 15 days for objections under UIDDA § 12‑21‑402(c). Alabama’s Rule 45 also governs service and compliance. Get it done right—no need for local counsel.
Countrywide Process
August 18, 2025
Under Alabama Code § 12‑21‑402(a), submitting a foreign subpoena to the clerk creates jurisdiction in Alabama courts—without it, out‑of‑state subpoenas aren’t enforceable.
If you’re an attorney seeking discovery from a witness or entity located in Alabama, you’ll need to domesticate your out-of-state subpoena before it becomes enforceable. Fortunately, Alabama has adopted the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA), simplifying the process for subpoena domestication across state lines.
The UIDDA provides a streamlined procedure that allows attorneys in one state to have a subpoena issued in another UIDDA-participating state—like Alabama—without needing to appear before a judge or hire local counsel. Alabama’s UIDDA compliance is governed by Rule 45 of the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure.
Ensure it incorporates all UIDDA requirements: counsel info and 15-day objection language.
Start by preparing the subpoena from your originating state. Ensure it includes:
Send the foreign subpoena and a completed Alabama subpoena request to the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where discovery will be conducted. Submit two copies and a completed Application for Issuance of Foreign Subpoena.
Clerk reissues Alabama subpoena per Alabama Rule 45, which mirrors the original subpoena. No court hearing or appearance is needed under UIDDA.
Serve notice and attached subpoena to opposing counsel at least 15 days before enforcement.
Countrywide Process will tender fees and mileage if needed. Following the Alabama Rules of Civil Procedure, file proof of service if requested
If an objection is filed within 15 days, file a motion to enforce or quash in the circuit court. For document subpoenas, objections may be served within 10 days of notice.
The filing fee for issuing a subpoena under UIDDA in Alabama generally ranges from $25 to $35, depending on the court and county. Additional service of process fees apply.
Avoid delays and court rejections. Click below to get started with Countrywide Process and let our professionals handle it from start to finish.
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Yes. Alabama has adopted the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA), allowing for streamlined subpoena domestication.
You file with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the county where discovery is sought.
No. Under UIDDA, local counsel is generally not required unless you need to enforce or contest the subpoena.
Filing fees typically range from $25 to $35, depending on the court.
Most courts issue the subpoena within 1-3 business days once documents are received.
They must file a written objection within 15 days. Enforcement or quashing requires a court motion filed in the discovery county.
No appearance is necessary unless the subpoena is contested or requires court intervention.
A licensed Alabama process server must serve the subpoena according to state rules.
Yes, subpoenas duces tecum for business records are allowed under UIDDA Alabama.
Yes. We manage the preparation, court filing, and service of UIDDA subpoenas across all 50 states.
