Ala. Code § 45-8A-22.126
Within 30 days after any final decision of the retirement board, any party, including the governing body of the City of Anniston, aggrieved at the decision of the retirement board may appeal from such decision to the Circuit Court of Calhoun County. Such appeal shall be de novo and shall be heard by a judge sitting without a jury. Upon the taking of such appeal, the appellant shall serve notice thereof upon the secretary-treasurer. Such appeal shall be heard by the circuit court at the earliest possible date. No bond shall be required for such an appeal. Such an appeal shall be perfected by the appellant filing a notice thereof with the clerk of the circuit court. An appeal may be taken from any decision of the circuit court to the Court of Civil Appeals in the manner provided by law or rule, or both, for taking appeals in other cases.
Ala. Code § 45-8A-22.126 (1975)