Huntsville Judge Sets May Trial for 708 Bar & Grille's Public Nuisance Case

Court issues stern warning to owner about filing pro se motions while represented by counsel.

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A Madison County Circuit Judge has scheduled a final hearing for May 26 in the City of Huntsville's legal effort to permanently shut down 708 Bar & Grille, a North Huntsville establishment the City has labeled a public nuisance. The judge also addressed a series of recent filings submitted by property owner Malcolm Gopher, warning that self-filed motions are improper while he has legal representation.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments and businesses over public nuisance laws, as well as the challenges faced by business owners in navigating complex legal proceedings when represented by counsel.

The details

In the order, Judge Ruth Ann Hall scheduled the final hearing, addressed Gopher's pro se motions, and ruled on outstanding discovery disputes. The court referenced a prior order from November 2025 that allowed Gopher access to the property under specific conditions, and directed attorneys for both sides to arrange a date for entry consistent with that earlier ruling. The judge also ordered defendants to respond to the City's Second Request for Production of Documents within 30 days, warning that failure to comply could result in delays to the trial.

  • The final hearing is scheduled for May 26, 2026 at 9 a.m.
  • The previous order allowing Gopher access to the property was issued on November 24, 2025.

The players

Judge Ruth Ann Hall

A Madison County Circuit Judge presiding over the case.

Malcolm Gopher

The property owner of 708 Bar & Grille, who has submitted multiple pro se motions in the case.

City of Huntsville

The local government seeking to permanently shut down 708 Bar & Grille, which it has labeled a public nuisance.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local governments and businesses over public nuisance laws, as well as the challenges faced by business owners in navigating complex legal proceedings when represented by counsel.