On the trial of all indictments, complaints or other criminal proceedings, the person on trial shall, at his own request, but not otherwise, be a competent witness, and his failure to make such a request shall not create any presumption against him nor be the subject of comment by counsel. If the district attorney makes any comment concerning the defendant's failure to testify, a new trial must be granted on motion filed within 30 days from entry of the judgment.
Structure Code of Alabama
Chapter 21 - Evidence and Witnesses.
Section 12-21-221 - Witness Having Pecuniary Interest in Case.
Section 12-21-222 - Accomplice's Testimony for Felony Conviction.
Section 12-21-223 - Discharged Codefendant as Witness for Prosecution.
Section 12-21-224 - Acquitted Codefendant as Witness.
Section 12-21-225 - Testimony for State or Defendant by Convict.
Section 12-21-226 - Wife Against Husband in Abandonment Cases.
Section 12-21-227 - Husband and Wife for or Against One Another.