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Home→Tools→Estate Settlement Checklist→Alabama→Jefferson County

What Should You Do When Someone Dies in Jefferson County, Alabama?

Generate a personalized checklist of steps to settle an estate. A few questions about the situation produce a full process plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Probate filings for Jefferson County go through the Probate Court at 716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard North, Birmingham, AL 35203. Main phone: 205-325-5420. Court hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

Jefferson County offers e-filing for probate matters. AlaFile statewide e-filing system. Self-represented litigants may register but are not required to e-file. Paper filing available. Jefferson County Probate Court commenced e-filing October 1, 2019.

Self-represented litigants may file in paper: Self-represented (pro se) litigants are not required to use AlaFile electronic filing. Paper filing is available at the probate court for all filings.

Alabama allows Summary Distribution for estates under $47,000. The waiting period is 30 days.

Immediate priorities include obtaining certified death certificates (10-15 copies are typically needed), locating estate planning documents, securing property and assets, notifying financial institutions, and determining whether probate is required.

In Alabama, the estate inventory must be filed within 60 days of the executor's appointment. Professional appraisal is required for certain assets.

How Do I Settle an Estate in Jefferson County, Alabama?

When settling an estate in Jefferson County, the process depends on how assets were titled. If probate is required, you'll file with the Probate Court.

Probate filings for Jefferson County go through the Probate Court at 716 Richard Arrington, Jr. Boulevard North, Birmingham, AL 35203. Phone: 205-325-5420.

Jefferson County offers e-filing for probate proceedings. AlaFile statewide e-filing system. Self-represented litigants may register but are not required to e-file. Paper filing available. Jefferson County Probate Court commenced e-filing October 1, 2019.

Jefferson County publishes contacts for Judicial (Birmingham), Judicial (Bessemer) — the right place to route probate questions before filing.

Self-represented litigants may file in paper: Self-represented (pro se) litigants are not required to use AlaFile electronic filing. Paper filing is available at the probate court for all filings.

For smaller estates under $47,000, Alabama offers Summary Distribution that can avoid formal probate.

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Alabama Estate Planning Resources

In-depth guides covering Alabama probate laws, trust requirements, and estate planning strategies.

Get Your Estate Settlement Checklist

Answer a few questions to get a personalized checklist for your situation.

This checklist provides general guidance for estate settlement. Requirements vary by state and circumstance. Consult a licensed attorney for legal advice.

Is this your situation?

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Death of a Parent

Death of a Parent

Losing a parent is overwhelming. What needs to happen next — settling the estate, navigating probate, and the steps to move forward.

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Loss of a Spouse

Loss of a Spouse

When you're ready, this won't take long. Settling the estate, claiming survivor benefits, retitling assets, and updating your own plan.

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