Alabama Judge Suspended After Delays in Child Abuse Cases Spark Outrage

A district judge in Alabama has been suspended following a state-led investigation that uncovered significant delays in his handling of child abuse and neglect cases. Dale County District Judge Stuart Smith, who oversees juvenile court matters, is accused of allowing hundreds of cases to stagnate, in some instances for years, raising serious concerns about the administration of justice in the region.

The Alabama Judicial Inquiry Commission, responsible for investigating ethical violations by judges, filed a formal complaint against Judge Smith on Monday. The commission's investigation, which began in May 2023 and spanned over a year, examined Smith’s docket of more than 300 cases, many involving vulnerable children. The findings revealed that Smith failed to manage his cases effectively, with some languishing without any judicial action, contrary to the legal requirements.

Judge Smith’s docket included a wide range of cases, from small claims and child support to civil disputes. However, it was the juvenile court cases, particularly those involving child abuse, neglect, and family reunifications, that drew the most scrutiny. The complaint highlights multiple instances where Smith's inaction had potentially devastating consequences for the children involved.

In one particularly troubling case, the Dale County Department of Human Resources sought custody of a 6-year-old child amid allegations of sexual abuse and drug use in the home. Despite the severity of the allegations, Smith waited 18 months to address the case and failed to appoint a court guardian to represent the child, as required by law.

Another case cited in the complaint involved an 8-month-old child whose grandparent filed a petition expressing concerns about the parent’s stability. The parent, in an unusual move, supported the grandparent’s petition. Yet, Judge Smith took over 18 months to issue an order permitting the grandparent to pursue the dependency petition, far exceeding the legally mandated timelines.

Under Alabama law, judges must review dependency cases within six months of a petition being filed and complete transfer hearings within nine months. In certain circumstances, these timelines must be expedited to protect the best interests of the child. However, in both cases mentioned, Judge Smith only took action after learning that the Judiciary Investigations Committee had begun its inquiry.

The complaint suggests that these cases are indicative of a broader pattern in Judge Smith’s handling of juvenile matters. The delays have placed significant burdens on the families, children, attorneys, foster parents, and caregivers involved, further eroding public confidence in the judicial system.

While the Judicial Inquiry Commission’s proceedings are confidential, the trial and associated filings will be made public. In 2022, the commission filed charges against two judges, resulting in suspensions without pay. A trial date will be set to determine whether Judge Smith will face similar consequences, or if an agreement can be reached.

As the case progresses, it will serve as a critical test of accountability within Alabama’s judicial system, especially in matters as sensitive and impactful as child welfare.