AL risk area

Probate risk in Alabama

Court-supervised estate process, timing, cost exposure, and public record requirements.

Alabama probate runs through the county probate court, with a summary distribution option for personal-property-only estates below a CPI-adjusted cap.

How long does probate typically take here?What costs and fees should families expect?What becomes public during probate?

At a glance

Key takeaways

Summary distribution is limited to personal property and is filed in the probate court where the decedent was domiciled.
Estate value must be within a $25,000 cap that is adjusted annually for inflation.
No personal representative can be pending or appointed, and at least 30 days must pass after notice.
Funeral expenses must be paid or arrangements made before distribution.

Questions to consider

Questions this risk area helps you evaluate in Alabama

How long does probate typically take here?
What costs and fees should families expect?
What becomes public during probate?

State overview

Alabama probate runs through the county probate court, with a summary distribution option for personal-property-only estates below a CPI-adjusted cap.

Summary distribution is limited to personal property and is filed in the probate court where the decedent was domiciled.
Estate value must be within a $25,000 cap that is adjusted annually for inflation.
No personal representative can be pending or appointed, and at least 30 days must pass after notice.
Funeral expenses must be paid or arrangements made before distribution.
Summary distribution petitions are filed in the probate court for the county of the decedent's domicile.

Sources

Risk sources

Uniform Probate Code (2019) - Probate of wills and administration
Article III covers appointment, notices, creditor claims, and small-estate collection (Section 3-1201).

National sources provide baseline context; state statutes and court rules control in Alabama.

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