Ala. Code § 36-11-14
When the information is filed in the circuit court, if the summons is served 20 days before the day specified in the order, such case shall stand for trial on that day; and, if the summons is served less than 20 days before the day specified in the order, then the court shall on the day specified in the order make an order setting another day on which the defendant shall answer the information and the case stand for trial. The case shall have precedence and priority over all other business in such court and, shall be proceeded with in all respects as civil actions are conducted, with the right to either party to except to the rulings of the court and to reserve such exceptions as in civil actions. The defendant shall be entitled to a trial by jury on any issue of fact, whenever he demands the same.
Ala. Code § 36-11-14 (1975)