Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Alabama

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WATKINS & EAGER
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1895
196 people in their team
English
Established in 1895, Watkins & Eager PLLC is a full-service law firm focused on the pursuit of excellence in the practice of law.  Our 70+ professionals in Mississippi and Alabama from varied backgrounds use their wealth of experience to creatively help our clients navigate an...
Martinson & Beason
Huntsville, United States

Founded in 1937
50 people in their team
English
Founded in 1937, the law firm of Martinson and Beason, P.C. has been dedicated for over 85 years to achieving the best possible result for our clients. Our Huntsville Alabama personal injury lawyers provide a professional, team approach to each case. Our attorneys are committed to the highest...
Crumbley-Blackwell-Price Attorneys
Huntsville, United States

Founded in 1998
10 people in their team
English
Attorneys in North Alabama | Crumbley-Blackwell-Price AttorneysWhen it comes to providing high-quality legal representation that is professional and client-focused - our law firm is hard to beat. At Crumbley-Blackwell-Price Attorneys - we have assisted thousands of clients during our multiple...
BALCH & BINGHAM LLP
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1922
439 people in their team
English
Balch & Bingham LLP is a corporate law firm with more than 230 attorneys across offices in Birmingham and Montgomery, Alabama; Jacksonville, Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; Gulfport and Jackson, Mississippi; Houston, Texas and Washington, D.C. We are recognized for our deep experience serving...
Bradley
Birmingham, United States

Founded in 1870
1,000 people in their team
English
Bradley is a national law firm with a reputation for skilled legal work, exceptional client service, and impeccable integrity. We provide business clients around the world with a full suite of legal services in dozens of industries and practice areas.With 13 offices located in Alabama, Florida,...
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United States Estate Planning Legal Questions answered by Lawyers

Browse our 2 legal questions about Estate Planning in United States and the lawyer answers, or ask your own questions for free.

My husband passed away five years ago. We have a property in th Philippines and I would like to transfer everything to my child. We are now residing in California, as U.S. citizens and my late husband a Filipino citizen.c
Estate Planning Civil & Human Rights Probate
How can I transfer Title on the property to my child?
Lawyer answer by Recososa Law Firm

Hello: We are sorry to hear about the passing of your husband, and we extend our deepest condolences. Regarding your concern, since your husband was a Filipino citizen and you are now both U.S. citizens residing in California, the property...

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1 answer
How to protect property from squatters law
Estate Planning Elder Law Landlord & Tenant
Deed in my mom's name. She died 18 years ago. Son is named as administrator but not as owner. We live in USA so let Non relative live there for 45-50 year but had no formal contract. Let him live there free as long as he paid utilities and taxes.... Read more →
Lawyer answer by M BILAL ADVOCATES, CORPORATE & TAX CONSULTANTS

After completing probate to establish yourself as the legal heir, you can transfer the property title to your name and then grant them permission to reside there through a formal agreement. It is worthy to note that you can do...

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1 answer

About Estate Planning Law in Alabama, United States

Estate planning in Alabama involves preparing legal documents and making decisions about how your assets and property will be managed and distributed after your death or if you become incapacitated. This area of law also includes appointing guardians for minor children, creating trusts, and establishing powers of attorney for both healthcare and finances. The main goal of estate planning is to ensure that your wishes are honored, your loved ones are provided for, and that your estate is handled efficiently and according to Alabama law.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While some estate planning tasks can be handled independently, there are several situations when a lawyer's expertise becomes essential. Common reasons to seek legal help include:

  • Drafting a will or trust tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.
  • Ensuring your estate plan complies with Alabama laws and avoids costly mistakes.
  • Navigating blended families, business ownership, or complex family dynamics.
  • Minimizing estate taxes or addressing concerns about Medicaid eligibility and long-term care planning.
  • Addressing special needs planning for a disabled family member.
  • Handling probate or estate administration after a loved one passes away.
  • Creating durable powers of attorney or advance directives for healthcare decisions.

Local Laws Overview

Alabama has distinct laws governing estate planning that differ from other states. Key aspects include:

  • Wills: Alabama recognizes written wills, which must be signed by the testator and witnessed by at least two people. Oral wills are not valid except under specific circumstances for active military personnel.
  • Intestate Succession: If you die without a will, Alabama's intestate laws determine who inherits your estate, typically favoring spouses, children, or other close relatives.
  • Probate: Probate is the legal process for settling a decedent's estate. Alabama offers both formal and simplified probate procedures, depending on the estate's size.
  • Trusts: Alabama law allows for a variety of trusts, including revocable living trusts, irrevocable trusts, and special needs trusts.
  • Powers of Attorney: Under the Alabama Uniform Power of Attorney Act, individuals can assign an agent to manage their finances or healthcare if they become incapacitated.
  • Advance Directives: Alabama recognizes living wills and healthcare proxies, allowing you to specify your medical preferences in advance.
  • Homestead Exemption: Alabama provides certain protections for a surviving spouse regarding the family home.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if I die without a will in Alabama?

If you die without a will, your assets will be distributed according to Alabama's intestacy laws. Typically, your closest relatives, such as your spouse, children, or parents, will inherit your estate based on statutory guidelines.

Do I need an attorney to write my will in Alabama?

Although you are not legally required to hire an attorney, legal guidance helps ensure your will is valid and accomplishes your goals, especially if you have a complex estate or special considerations.

How many witnesses are required for a will in Alabama?

A will must be witnessed by at least two competent individuals who are not beneficiaries of the will to be considered valid in Alabama.

Can I make changes to my will or estate plan later?

Yes, you can update your will or estate plan at any time by executing an amendment or a new document, as long as you remain mentally competent.

What is probate, and will my estate have to go through it?

Probate is the court-supervised process of distributing a deceased person's assets. Most estates in Alabama go through probate unless you have set up mechanisms like living trusts or designated beneficiaries that bypass this process.

What is a living will or advance directive?

A living will, also known as an advance directive, lets you state your healthcare preferences in advance and appoint someone to make medical decisions if you are unable to communicate.

How can I avoid probate in Alabama?

Establishing a revocable living trust, designating beneficiaries on accounts, and holding property jointly with the right of survivorship are common ways to avoid or minimize probate in Alabama.

Are there estate or inheritance taxes in Alabama?

Alabama does not have a state inheritance or estate tax. However, large estates may still be subject to federal estate taxes.

Who should consider creating a trust?

Trusts are useful for individuals with significant assets, blended families, minor children, loved ones with special needs, or if you wish to keep your affairs private and avoid probate.

What happens if my loved one died and I need to administer their estate?

You may need to open probate in the county where the deceased lived, file the will (if there is one), notify heirs and creditors, inventory assets, pay debts, and distribute remaining property. An attorney can help guide you through the process.

Additional Resources

If you seek more information or assistance regarding estate planning in Alabama, the following resources may be helpful:

  • Alabama State Bar - Lawyer Referral Service and legal resources
  • Alabama Probate Courts - Local county probate offices handle wills, probate, and guardianships
  • Alabama Department of Senior Services - Information on advance directives and elder law
  • Legal Services Alabama - Free or low-cost legal aid for eligible residents
  • Area Agencies on Aging - Counseling for seniors and their families on legal and financial planning

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in estate planning, here are suggested steps to take:

  • Gather relevant documents, including deeds, account statements, previous estate plans, and family information.
  • Consider your goals and any concerns you have about your assets or your family's needs.
  • Contact a qualified estate planning attorney who practices in Alabama and has experience with your specific circumstances.
  • Schedule an initial consultation to discuss your situation and obtain advice tailored to your needs.
  • Stay informed about any future changes to Alabama law and regularly review your estate plan to ensure it remains current.

Taking these steps will help you protect your legacy, ensure your wishes are honored, and provide peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Alabama through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Estate Planning, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Alabama, United States - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.