Ex Parte King

We granted the writ of certiorari to take a closer look at the petitioners' argument that the "trial court erred in consolidating the defendants' cases for trial in the absence of the defendant, Joey King." In support of their argument, the petitioners seize upon the last sentence found in Rule 15.4(b), Temporary Alabama Rules of Criminal Procedure. That rule provides as follows:

"(b) Consolidation. If defendants are charged in separate indictments, informations, or complaints, the court, on its own initiative or on motion of any party, may, no later than seven (7) days prior to trial, order…