Home
/
Probate
/
Alabama

Best Probate lawyers in Alabama

683 Probate Lawyers in Alabama

>683

experienced lawyers

April Dunaway Wise

105 Tallapoosa St., Ste 200, Montgomery, AL

Adoption Estate Planning Probate +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

25 Feb, 2020 by Shirley

When my brother died without a will, I was faced with settling his very complicated estate. After reading many resumes and reviews of probate attorneys from many firms, I wrote down several names and prayed to be directed to the right one. That turned out to be April Wise. Great choice! April is a likable and easy to talk to person. She is a good listener and put this anxious, older client at ease. But, most importantly, April is a knowledgeable attorney with a sharp legal mind who is very thorough in her work. She always knows exactly what to do no matter what comes up. Along the way, she breaks down the whole process nicely for you so that you can understand all the necessary probate steps and legal time frames. Her legal secretary, Terry Hunter, is very helpful, also. I’m so thankful I was led to this wonderful attorney!

25 Oct, 2017 by Anonymous

I live in Montgomery and called April for help will a will dispute. After talking to her briefly I was sure she would be an excellent choice. To my surprise when she found out the dispute was in Jefferson county she recommended another attorney who practiced in Jefferson county. She felt he would know the area judges better and be more suited for the job. I subsequently retained the attorney she recommended. She didn't make a dime and took the time and effort to help me. That's integrity, a rare commodity these days! HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!

31 May, 2017 by Chris

April is extremely knowledgeable and trustworthy. She knows how to explain legal matters in a manner that I understand. I keep April's business cards on hand to refer any friends and clients to that have any Estate planning needs. She is also knowledgeable and very helpful with special needs planning, living wills, POA's and probate issues.

Vickie Lynn May Willard

124 W Tombigbee St, Florence, AL

Civil Rights Criminal Defense Probate +3

5.0/5

5.0

6 Reviews

14 Mar, 2024 by Blair jones

Awesome!!!

19 Oct, 2023 by Terry newbury

A very nice person to handle your attorney needs

24 Mar, 2023 by Stephanie burroughs

Love her. She wasn't my attorney. She was my kids' attorney. All she cared about was what was best for them. She helped me through a lot of stuff. She is good at what she does. I don't care who doesn't agree. I have nothing bad to say about her.

Erick Kerr Pratt

117 Second Avenue, N.E., Decatur, AL

Family Law Personal Injury Probate +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

15 Aug, 2017 by Dawson

I met with this lawyer and he took the time to advise me on a business issue. He gave me some advice that allowed me to proceed without the need for an attorney which I appreciated. In the future I would seek his advice and recommend him to others.

10 May, 2017 by Jenny

Erick is an excellent lawyer. I appreciate and respect the work that he does. He was more than helpful to explain and make sure I understood everything that was being said or done. He was very supportive and caring in my case.

14 Feb, 2017 by Anonymous

My wife was in an accident where she was hit head on by teens who were racing. Mr. Pratt fought for us, against the teens, their attorneys, and the insurance company. In the end, Mr. Pratt fought hard and won our case. He's my attorney. He earned our business and our trust.

Brennan Ross Clifton

11111 Hwy. 31, Spanish Fort, AL

Criminal Defense Family Law Probate +3

5.0/5

5.0

5 Reviews

22 Sep, 2021 by Anonymous

Brennan Clifton is definitely the attorney that you want on your side. He will be thorough and direct and very compassionate regarding your case. He doesn't look at any case as if it is unnecessary. He truly puts himself in your shoes to understand why you feel you need an attorney and then he adjusts his legal strategy based on your needs. I can not say enough good things about him! He resolved my issue literally within hours!!!!! THANK YOU VERY MUCH Brennan!!! I appreciate you!!!!!

10 Oct, 2020 by Anonymous

I hired this lawyer to get my arrest expunged for me. This was an arrest from several years ago that I didn’t want on my record. Always returned my calls and was very thorough.

15 Jun, 2020 by Anonymous

I own a construction company and hired Mr. Clifton to resolve a matter concerning a utilities company claiming damages not caused by my employees. He kept me up to date with progress, handled the problem professionally and efficiently, and made the problem disappear!

Angelique M. Cooper

3929 Airport Blvd, Bldg. 2, Suite 300, Mobile, AL

Bankruptcy Civil Rights Personal Injury +3 +6

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

12 Aug, 2020 by Martha

Ms. Cooper was very professional and her knowledgeable legal staff assisted me in the representation of my case. Ms. Cooper was very thorough and I was felt completely confident that she was the right one to help me. She and her staff kept me notified of important dates and I never felt rushed or given any reason to question her expertise. I would highly recommend Ms. Cooper to handle your bankruptcy matters.

27 Aug, 2015 by Angie

I was referred by another happy client that Ms. Cooper had helped. It was easy to get an appointment and she explained the whole bankruptcy process well. When we went to court to file (back in 2010) she was the most organized lawyer there. The other ones were fumbling with all kinds of folders and she had everything in order for her clients on her ipad. Well into our bankruptcy, the car that I had involved in the bankruptcy was totaled in a storm and she immediately filed the motion where we could substitute another title so I would not be without a vehicle. At the end, when the trustee was still subtracting payments from our checking account she went to court and got an immediate refund of all over payments. (We received the refund the same day she went to court). We were well represented throughout the whole process and she was always compassionate and sympathetic. Any time we called with questions we always got a call back.

30 Apr, 2015 by Rocky

Counselor Cooper and her professional, knowledgeable legal staff provided me with outstanding, unparalleled representation in my case. Ms. Cooper developed and succeeded my case on a timeline that exceeded my expectations and relieved me of the fear and loathing of a legal matter. She kept me notified and aware of important issues while at the same time took care of the details in which I need not be concerned.

Thomas Andrew Minetree II

500 N Montgomery Ave, Sheffield, AL

Elder Law Estate Planning Probate +3

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

26 Jan, 2017 by Vicky

Was very helpful with my elderly parents getting all needed documents in order. When my father passed again helped ease the burden of all the legal aspects and requirements to help my mother in directions she needed to follow. Didn't talk down and explained every detail so we all could understand the reasons why. I being the daughhter that was in these meetings highly recommend Mr Minetree for your elderly loved ones. Highly recommend his services.

10 May, 2016 by John

We hired Tom Minetree to handle a Medicaid benefits application for a family member. Despite the intertwined finances of the applicant and his wife, Tom's office ably prepared the application and determined precisely when it should be submitted. The state Medicaid agency challenged a property transfer that had occurred prior to the submission of the application. We would up litigating the issue before an administrative law judge who, thanks to Tom's capable representation, determined that we had, in fact, complied with the strict requirements of the law. Furthermore, the state Medicaid agency affirmed the decision and confirmed benefits as of the date of the application.

12 May, 2015 by Patricia

Being single with no children, I decided it was time to get my affairs in order and sought the advice of Tom Minetree who specializes in elder law and estate planning. During my estate planning it became very evident that Tom knows his speciality and provided some very helpful legal insight into my affairs. After my first consultation, I thought my mother should look at her estate planning. My brother and I first met with Tom and came away again with the feeling Tom really knows what he is talking about. During the establishment of our mother's estate and that of mine, I can truly say it was a pleasant experience, unlike others I have had, to deal with Tom and his staff. Tom sees the big picture and looks down the road to the future. I called several times and asked numerous questions and not one time was I talked down to nor felt my questions were unwarranted. I trust Tom to tell me like it is and to have my and my family's best interest in mind. If you need legal advice in elder law and estate planning, I highly recommend that you give Tom a call. Patricia

John Charles Bell

3430 Independence Dr Ste 140, Birmingham, AL

Criminal Defense Government Immigration +2 +5

+1 (855) 410-9140

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

28 Mar, 2015 by Debra

Mr. Bell was so greatly appreciated for his work that he did for my husband & I. He was very prompt in completing the job in hand and when it came time to sign papers, he made himself available for our convenience. When we did meet, Mr. Bell was very explanatory in what he had done for us and it was in simple laymen's terms and not a lot of complicated legal jargon. We will most definitely call upon him again when and if the need for legal help is required.

26 Mar, 2015 by Robin

As the President of a small healthcare business, I selected The Law Office of John Charles Bell, L.L.C., as my law firm. I have known Mr. Bell since 1992. At that time, and until 2013, Mr. Bell served at the United States Attorney’s Office where he had a distinguished career for over 21 years. When he retired from the United States Attorney’s Office, he started his own law firm. On the basis of my own professional contact with Mr. Bell, he has provided excellent legal counsel for me on a number of complex and diverse legal matters. He utilizes hard work and creative problem solving to attain justice for his client. Mr. Bell has both the intellectual and the personal skills that makes him an exceptional lawyer. However, if need be, he is not averse to associating another lawyer or another firm to obtain the desired result. He brings with him a long and impressive record of achievement in civic and voluntary activities. He is committed to social change and the representation of disregarded people. If you select Mr. Bell and his firm as your legal representative, you not only will have hired an attorney that has a high level of intelligence, practicability, and integrity, but you will have hired an attorney who cares about your well being.

20 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous

The Law Office of John Charles Bell has been my go to when it comes to lawyers! John has gone above and beyond with my case! He is trustworthy, quick and very helpful. It's very hard to understand most of my paperwork but he made sure to put the cookies on the bottom shelf for me! I'm above pleased and very grateful for his hard work. One can definitely see his passion and determination!

William Grady Nolan

200 Office Park Drive, Mountain Brook, AL

Consumer Protection Elder Law Estate Planning +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

29 Aug, 2017 by Carol

When we had to move Dad from Hospital to Nursing Home with an expectation of long term Medicaid needs, I needed good advice fast. Somehow I came across Bill’s first blog, where he said he saw himself as an elder advocate. Sounded like a nice guy, so I moved on to his main website and left a contact request over the weekend. When he returned my inquiry early on Monday morning he didn’t disappoint. So kind and helpful! Our situation was so simple it could really be handled by downloaded documents without an attorney. He offered an overview of the Medicaid process with really helpful insights that were not among the info I had unearthed in hours and hours of search and reading. I feel I can handle the Medicare and Medicaid application process with more confidence now. I am so grateful for his willingness to take 20 minutes to answer my questions. His answers really changed everything. If I had a more complex case I would certainly ask Bill to handle it.

13 May, 2015 by Linda

I have recommended Mr. Nolen to many people through the years I have known him. I will continue to highly recommend him for Elder Law services. Mr. Nolen helped me with my mother's VA Aid & Attendant Benefit application, her estate planning regarding her will, trust for her assets,etc. .He also assisted me in filing for my husbands VA Aid and Attendant benefit. We are now in the process of settling my mother's estate after her passing in March 2015.

05 May, 2015 by Anonymous

Mr. Nolan has provided excellent advice, suggestions, and expertise first in assisting me with my parents' estate planning and then with my own needs for legal documents. He is accessible and helpful with any question I have asked him regarding both situations. I would recommend his without reservation.

Andrew Randle McKinney

3479-B Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores, AL

Business Criminal Defense Probate +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

26 Sep, 2019 by Robert b

Andrew did and excellent job solving the issue I had with my private beach access for my properties. He personally handled ever aspect which needed their unlawful blocking of my access land. I highly recommended Andrew when you may need his services.

17 Jan, 2019 by Brad

Andrew was very helpful and patient assisting me with a property dispute matter. Andrew took the time to and gave me and the matter at hand the attention it deserved. Without Andrew, I would not have received the judgement I wanted, thank you Andrew.

15 Oct, 2018 by Andrew

I have used Andrew's services for both per personal and business. Andrew does a great job explaining everything in detail and keeping you informed throughout the entire process. I have and will continue to refer him for any legal matters.

Raymond Lewis Jackson Jr.

108 N. Dean Road, Auburn, AL

Business Criminal Defense Family Law +6 +9

5.0/5

5.0

4 Reviews

21 Sep, 2017 by Brett

Our case was a complex international IP dispute. Raymond led the legal effort stateside, formulated an overall approach, and carefully coordinated with our legal team in the UK to ensure that the plan was followed. Raymond took charge and saw things through to the end. The result of Mr. Jackson's efforts was a settlement in our favor for a significant sum.

17 Oct, 2015 by Anonymous

Mr. Jackson represented us in a recent court case in Opelika, Alabama. He was very communicative and handled the case with concern and excellence. We were pleased with the outcome. I highly recommend his services and his team!

04 May, 2015 by Wilton

Raymond Jackson is the best as far as I'm concerned. Even if I have a legal question that is not his expertise, I always consult with Raymond. Raymond represented my business in a case where both the city and county were allies. Nobody thought we could win the case. It was a constitutional law issue in Alabama. The opposition retained a law firm from a large city in Alabama. Raymond won the case at the first level. The case was well developed, it was apparent the judge was impressed. Raymond was an outsider in this case. Subsequent to our case, Raymond got more clients from the area and he continues to represent us.

Jason Paul McCartha

100 Jefferson Street South, Huntsville, AL

Adoption Business Estate Planning +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

29 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous

Jason and Jennifer McCartha went above and beyond our expectations! They were organized, thorough, and experts at explaining all the legal terms and requirements we needed to know. I feel confident beginning my new business that they have helped me form.

13 Jul, 2017 by Josh

Mr. McCartha was a HUGE help in getting my LLC started. We went over the ins and outs of my company, he gave me wonderful advice, and I left with full confidence that I knew what I was doing. He took all the time had needed to (almost 4 hours) when explaining everything and I will now recommend him to anyone and everyone I talk to!!

28 Jun, 2017 by Linda

I live across the country and needed a Lawyer in Huntsville to Probate my Mother's Estate and I was fortunate to find Mr. McCartha and his wonderful wife Jennifer. They walked me through the process very thoroughly and gave me excellent advice and information every step of the way. I found them to be very genuinely nice, caring people and felt like I could trust them as soon as I met them. They went out of their way to expedite the initial filings so that I only had to make one trip to Huntsville and made me feel confident that they would continue the process expertly - which they did. I highly recommend Mr. McCartha and would not hesitate to contact him again should I need to.

James Thomas Baxter III

2409 Commerce Court, Suite A, Huntsville, AL

Business Estate Planning Litigation +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

25 Mar, 2021 by Lm

Mr. Baxter has handled diverse personal and corporate legal work for me over a number of years. He is a rare blend of hard to find attorney attributes; he is honorable, impeccably reliable and decorous while executing sharp legal strategies that are both aggressive and effective. He has substantial, broad experience and is a long established member of the legal community, both of which are utilized to his client's benefit. In short, he has earned my confidence with hard work, dedication to my interest and with fair, detailed billing.

25 Mar, 2021 by Larry

I am a homebuilder and Mr. Baxter handles all of our legal work which includes 20-25 loan closings per year, another 20 -25 construction loans per year, and 1 or 2 development loans which includes title work, clearing title, contracts to purchase land and lots and anything related. He has been and continues to be a trusted and very competent part of what it takes to make our business successful.

22 Sep, 2011 by Anonymous

My business is mostly real estate and real estate management. I have used Tom Baxter on a number of occasisons for legal matters ranging from evictions to condominium document development to HOA rules and regulations. I recommend him without reservation.

215 W. Dr. Hicks Blvd, Florence, AL

Business Car Accident Personal Injury +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

3 Reviews

05 Aug, 2017 by Randy

In my profession, I work with a lot of attorneys. Usually it involves contracts, agreements and from time-to-time dispute resolution. However, I rarely needed someone to help me with personal matters until recently. An attorney friend recommended John Saylor and I am delighted that he did. John helped me resolve a collection matter in a very short time - and he did it with such professionalism that I was able to maintain good relations with the other party. John in currently helping my wife and I with a far more complex matter that requires someone with a broad range of legal and technical expertise. He has done an outstanding job of navigating us through the issues and placing us in a very good position to prevail. Moreover, John and DeeDee are a pleasure to work with and are always quick to respond to any request. Without hesitation, I highly recommend John and his team at John Saylor, LLC.

17 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous

John Saylor is a very honest, professional, and knowledgeable attorney in a variety of legal areas. If you are looking for attorney, I would highly recommend Mr. Saylor. His clients are a top priority and he will work for you.

14 Jul, 2017 by Anonymous

Mr. Saylor may be a newer to law than others, but his determination, zeal and past business experience make him an excellent attorney. Other law firms advertise that they return every call, but Mr. Saylor really does. His clients and their well-being are definitely his priority.

Jerry Sanford Barclay

118 Southside Sq, Huntsville, AL

Criminal Defense Estate Planning Federal Crime +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

14 Mar, 2021 by Jeremey

Jerry never stops fighting for his clients. I've had a few attorneys in my life and he's the standard bearer in this city, a true professional, if you're in a pinch and you have the capability Jerry S. Barclay is the best you're gonna get, he has a great paralegal as well...you'll be in good hands.

12 Sep, 2019 by Anonymous

I used Mr. Barclay to help my husband and myself with our estate planning. He is extremely knowledgeable but didn't try to lawyerese us and talk down to us. He made us immediately comfortable. He made sure we understood everything and felt comfortable about the decisions we were making. His office staff is friendly and courteous. I would highly recommend him to anyone. Heaven forbid I ever need a criminal lawyer, but if I do I'm calling him.

John James Crowley Jr.

2610 B Dauphin St, Mobile, AL

Business Estate Planning Probate +1 +4

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

14 May, 2015 by Anonymous

John and his expertise helped me with my multiple business transactions. I would recommend John to anyone. His experience with business transactions and tax law is cutting edge. The personal attention and straightforward advice helped me with a difficult situation. Call him today.

19 Mar, 2015 by Anonymous

Mr. Crowley is a very capable lawyer who has helped me with multiple business and tax related matters. I recommend him to anyone needing a business or tax lawyer.

William Carter Montgomery

Po Box 680, Huntsville, AL

Business Estate Planning Probate +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

02 Nov, 2023 by Pat

Mr. Montgomery and his staff have been amazing in helping me through my son's motorcycle accident. The were very up front and honest about the case and gave good and sound advice. I had an issue on a Saturday that I emailed him on and he took the time that day to call me to talk through it. To me that's amazing that a lawyer would do that on the weekend on his day off. His staff is as amazing. Quick responses and other communication reaching out to me to give updates and advice. The other lawyers in the firm have been equally as amazing in helping me through this very difficult process. My son was in a motorcycle accident that was not his fault 7 months ago and has TBI and is currently incapacitated. This firm has done an outstanding job representing my son and I. Highly recommended.

31 Oct, 2023 by Christie

The staff at Martinson & Beason were very professional, friendly, and extremely knowledgeable. Their assistance in my legal matters was greatly appreciated and their professionalism and skill unmatched. Erin Stewart and Carter Montgomery's expertise was clear and they were happy to answer all my questions. My options were well presented and thoroughly explained. I am extremely satisfied with the service that they provided and highly recommend this practice for any legal needs.

Zachary William Anderson

415 A Church St NW Ste 200, Huntsville, AL

Adoption Business Estate Planning +3 +6

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

28 Jul, 2022 by Anonymous

Mr. Anderson worked with us to set up a life trust and living will. He gave us his email address if we had questions, which he responded to. He followed up with us after we had paid him making sure we had done everything we were suppose to on our trust. He was great. Very pleasant.

15 Feb, 2022 by Dale

My wife and I have putting off getting our wills done for a while. After the holidays, we finally decided to get it done. Mr. Anderson asked us many questions, listened to our concerns, and drew up the paperwork to get it done. It was surprisingly painless. I would highly recommend Zach Anderson.

Rodney Joe Dalton

PO Box 660, Abbeville, AL

Business Debt Collection Estate Planning +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

17 Mar, 2014 by Jeffrey

I have developed a reliable 5 year relationship with Rodney. He offers a friendly and helpful office staff that work very hard to accomodate our needs. He is willing to answer any question thoroughly and professionally. He works with us in a timely fashion and meets deadlines.

13 Feb, 2014 by Caleb

As a professional in the real estate finance business, I have acquired legal services many, many times from multiple attorneys. Rodney has always provided the highest level of service. He has a wonderful ability to make complex and often chaotic legal issues seem easy and manageable. I would recommend Rodney to anyone looking for a trustworthy, honest, and dedicated attorney.

Brett Ashley King

29984 State Highway 79 Ste 200, Locust Fork, AL

Criminal Defense Family Law Government +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

07 Mar, 2022 by Brendan tucker

Brett king helped my grandparents get custody of me when I was a baby and now he has helped get my name changed I recommend you hire this man he is awesome. I idolize him.

30 Jan, 2021 by Carla

I live north of Huntsville and hired Mr. King to represent me in a case in Oneonta. We did our meetings by email and phone instead of in person with the exception of Court so I didn't have to travel. He was extremely pleasant, knowledgeable, supportive, sharp and brilliant among other outstanding qualities. He went above and beyond for me inside and outside of the court room and also had a respectable price. I thoroughly recommend him and his services. If I ever have to go to court again, I will definitely use him. We need more lawyers like Mr. King in this world!

Michael Lawrence Cumpton

3523 Montlimar Plaza Dr, Mobile, AL

Estate Planning Probate Trusts +3

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

05 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous

Mr. Cumpton is very knowledgeable and answered all of our questions. He made us feel extremely reassured with our decisions to have him and his office prepare our trust. Thank you so much!

02 Apr, 2024 by Anonymous

Michael Cumpton assisted me in the formation of a trust. He was very professional, but also kind. Life can be messy and he was patient to listen and suggest viable and acceptable solutions. All the staff were awesome.

Harry Vincent Satterwhite

1325 Dauphin St, Mobile, AL

Appeals Business Consumer Protection +8 +11

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

04 Oct, 2021 by Rahmat mulya

09 Apr, 2018 by Drawing play

Rebecca Marie Winters

116 Jefferson Street, Huntsville, AL

Adoption Appeals Child Custody +3 +6

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

07 Nov, 2022 by Brittany chavarria

Such sweet people at this firm....

04 Nov, 2021 by Mary e. grubbs

Ms. Hall saw us when we had no appointment. We appreciate that so much, and we have confidence that she is going to represent us well. She has been a very big help. Her new location is convenient, and the area is nice.

Raley Livingston Wiggins

322 Catoma Street, Montgomery, AL

Consumer Protection Elder Law Estate Planning +3 +6

5.0/5

5.0

1 Reviews

5.0

1 Reviews

02 May, 2017 by Jennifer scrivano

20 Apr, 2012 by Mitchell

Raley created a much needed will for me. What i enjoyed is that Raley wrote my will where i don't need to change it every life event. It's fluid with the typical circumstances someone like me would go through. I'd refer Raley to my friends, family, and clients for wills/elder law work.

William Davis Azar

800 S Mcdonough St Ste 105, Montgomery, AL

Car Accident Consumer Protection Criminal Defense +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

17 Sep, 2019 by Charles

Mr. Azar has represented me several times over the past 15 years. I have always found him to be attentive to my concerns and informative about the areas of the law that pertained to my issues. His representation to the jury or Judge as in specific cases was professional, precise and forceful. He was able to prevail in each instance thereby serving his client well. I would recommend Mr. Azar to anyone with the need for legal representation as it relates to personal injury, credit collectors, estates, wills, real estate and commercial litigation. His expertise in these areas will afford the best possible results rather in negotiations or in court.

16 Sep, 2019 by Nancy

Bill is very helpful and wonderful. He is compassionate and gave me advice when I needed it for a small claims case. He has the utmost integrity, knowledge, and a very caring attitude.

Peter Allen McInish

Po Box 610, Dothan, AL

Adoption Family Law Litigation +2 +5

5.0/5

5.0

2 Reviews

20 Sep, 2023 by Marilyn

Pete is an outstanding attorney who is extremely knowledgeable, professional and wise in handling legal matters. This law Firm has years of experience and will navigate your case to success and is highly recommended. Some people were born to be who they are and Pete is born to be a Great Attorney. Five Stars all day long.

23 Jul, 2016 by Jackie

Peter helped me with my divorce a couple years ago. He made sure I was compensated for my things I lost during my separation and I continued to get child support for my daughter. Thank you Peter for your help!

Browse lawyers

Cities in Alabama - Find a Lawyer Near Me

Browse lawyers

Practice Areas in Alabama

Discover the ideal lawyer

You can search a lawyer by practice area, lawyer name, city, state, or ZIP code

FAQs

Questions? We have answers

What a Probate Lawyer Can Do for You

A probate lawyer assists with the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate. This often involves guiding executors (if a will exists) or beneficiaries (if no will exists) through the probate process to settle the estate according to the deceased’s wishes or applicable laws. Probate lawyers can help validate the will, distribute assets, resolve disputes among heirs, handle outstanding debts or taxes, and ensure the estate is legally and efficiently administered.

Whether you’re an executor of an estate or an heir facing probate proceedings, a probate lawyer can help you navigate the often-complex legal process to ensure the estate is settled correctly.

When Should I Hire a Probate Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a probate lawyer when you are responsible for managing the estate of a deceased individual, especially in the following situations:

The estate has substantial assets: If the estate includes significant assets like real estate, investments, or business interests, legal assistance is often necessary to handle the distribution properly.
The will is being contested: If there are disputes among heirs regarding the validity of the will or the division of assets, a probate lawyer can help resolve the conflict.
The estate includes complex or unclear provisions: If the will contains complicated instructions or there are no clear beneficiaries, a lawyer can ensure that the estate is administered according to legal requirements.
There is no will (intestate estate): When a person dies without a will, the estate is subject to intestacy laws, which determine how assets are distributed. A probate lawyer can help navigate this process.
Debt or tax issues exist: If the estate owes significant debts or is subject to estate taxes, a probate lawyer can help ensure debts are paid appropriately and taxes are minimized.
Probate disputes: If family members or other parties are disputing the distribution of assets or challenging the executor's actions, legal representation is crucial to defending your rights and ensuring the estate is handled properly.

Hiring a probate lawyer early in the process can help avoid costly mistakes and ensure the estate is settled efficiently.

What Does a Probate Lawyer Do?

A probate lawyer provides a wide range of legal services to help manage and settle an estate. Their tasks can include:

Validating the will: Filing the will with the probate court and ensuring its legal validity.
Guiding executors or administrators: Advising the person responsible for managing the estate on their duties, including inventorying assets, notifying creditors, and paying debts.
Filing necessary paperwork: Preparing and submitting the legal documents required to initiate and complete the probate process.
Resolving disputes: Mediating or litigating disputes among heirs or between beneficiaries and executors, including challenges to the will or disagreements over asset distribution.
Handling debt and tax matters: Ensuring that outstanding debts, taxes, and estate taxes are properly calculated and paid from the estate’s assets.
Distributing assets: Ensuring that assets are distributed to the beneficiaries according to the will or intestacy laws, and that all legal requirements are fulfilled.
Closing the estate: Completing the final steps of the probate process, including filing a final accounting with the court and formally closing the estate.

How Are Probate Lawyers Paid?

Probate lawyers typically charge for their services based on the complexity of the estate and the nature of the legal work involved. Common payment structures include:

Hourly rate: Most probate lawyers charge by the hour, with rates depending on the lawyer’s experience and the complexity of the estate. Hourly rates can range from $150 to $500 or more.
Flat fee: For simple estates or straightforward probate tasks, some lawyers may charge a flat fee that covers all of the necessary legal work.
Percentage of the estate: In some states, probate lawyers are allowed to charge a percentage of the estate's value as their fee. This percentage typically ranges from 2% to 5%, depending on the size of the estate and state regulations.
Retainer fee: Some lawyers may require an upfront retainer fee, which is billed against as the probate process progresses.

It’s important to clarify the fee structure during your initial consultation to understand how you will be charged and avoid unexpected costs.

How Much Does a Probate Lawyer Cost?

The cost of hiring a probate lawyer depends on several factors, including the complexity of the estate, the type of legal issues involved, and the lawyer’s fee structure. General cost estimates include:

Simple estates: For estates with straightforward assets and no disputes, probate legal fees can range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the lawyer's fees and the state's probate laws.
Complex estates: For larger or more complicated estates with multiple properties, business interests, or disputes, probate costs can exceed $10,000 and may reach $20,000 or more.
Hourly rates: If charged by the hour, expect rates between $150 and $500, depending on the lawyer’s expertise and geographic location.
Percentage fees: In some cases, a probate lawyer may charge 2% to 5% of the estate’s value, particularly for larger estates or those involving complex legal matters.

Always ask for a clear estimate of fees during your initial consultation to understand the total cost of probate representation.

How to Check the Credibility of a Probate Lawyer

To ensure you’re hiring a reputable probate lawyer, follow these steps to check their credentials and experience:

Verify their state bar status: Check with your state’s bar association to confirm the lawyer is licensed to practice and has no history of disciplinary action.
Look for probate experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they specialize in probate law and have experience handling estates of similar complexity.
Read client reviews and testimonials: Look for online reviews on platforms like Avvo or Martindale-Hubbell to see what past clients have said about the lawyer’s probate experience.
Ask for references: A credible lawyer should be able to provide references from past clients who can vouch for their professionalism and expertise in handling probate matters.
Look for membership in professional organizations: Membership in organizations like the American Academy of Estate Planning Attorneys (AAEPA) or the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA) can indicate a lawyer's commitment to estate and probate law.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make the most out of your first consultation with a probate lawyer, it’s important to come prepared with relevant documents and information. Here’s what you should bring:

A copy of the will or trust (if applicable): Bring any estate planning documents left by the deceased, including wills, trusts, or powers of attorney.
List of assets and debts: Prepare a detailed list of the deceased’s assets (e.g., real estate, bank accounts, investments) and outstanding debts (e.g., loans, mortgages, credit cards).
Death certificate: Bring a certified copy of the deceased person’s death certificate.
Contact information for heirs and beneficiaries: Have a list of all individuals or entities named in the will or who are entitled to inherit under intestacy laws.
Questions about the probate process: Write down any questions you have about the process, costs, and potential issues you might face.
Relevant financial records: If available, bring any relevant financial documents, such as bank statements, property deeds, and tax returns.

By coming prepared, you can ensure a productive consultation and allow the lawyer to provide the best advice for your situation.

Best Probate lawyers in Alabama

Browse lawyers

Cities in Alabama - Find a Lawyer Near Me

Birmingham

Mobile

Montgomery

Huntsville

Tuscaloosa

Vestavia

Hoover

Dothan

Mountain Brk

Florence

Gadsden

Auburn

Fairhope

Anniston

Decatur

Daphne

Opelika

Bessemer

Jasper

Cullman

Prattville

Madison

Enterprise

Pelham

Trussville

Vestavia Hills

Athens

Selma

Foley

Guntersville

Phenix City

Andalusia

Pell City

Albertville

Fort Payne

Bay Minette

Tuscumbia

Wetumpka

Northport

Gulf Shores

Orange Beach

Alabaster

Clanton

Troy

Scottsboro

Talladega

Homewood

Oneonta

Spanish Fort

Brewton

Greenville

Columbiana

Helena

Irondale

Sylacauga

Millbrook

Moulton

Union Springs

Chelsea

Gardendale

Ozark

Alex City

Centre

Eufaula

Hamilton

Oxford

Robertsdale

Dadeville

Leeds

Monroeville

Demopolis

Muscle Shoals

Pike Road

Russellville

Tuskegee

Moody

Mountain Brook