Overview
Dallas County is located in Alabama with a population of approximately 35,545. The Dallas County Probate Court handles all probate and estate matters for decedents who were domiciled in the county at the time of death.
Alabama probate is governed by Code of Alabama Title 43. The process begins with filing a Petition for Letters Testamentary (if there is a will) or Letters of Administration (if no will) to admit the will and appoint a personal representative. The court then issues Letters Testamentary for testate estates or Letters of Administration for intestate estates.
Alabama's "Revised Alabama Small Estates Act" (effective Oct 2025) allows for summary distribution of small estates. The threshold is based on the combined value of the homestead allowance, exempt property allowance, and family allowance (approximately $47,000 for 2026).
Alabama law allows for reasonable attorney fees and personal representative compensation (typically not to exceed 2.5% of receipts and 2.5% of disbursements, though the court may allow more for special services).
This guide provides an informational overview of the Dallas County probate process. It is not legal advice and is not a substitute for consulting a qualified attorney. Laws and local procedures may change — verify current requirements with the court.
Courthouse Information
Dallas County Probate Court
Probate matters in Dallas County are handled at the Dallas County Courthouse.
Address: 105 Lauderdale Street, Selma, AL 36701
Phone: (334) 876-4830 (Probate Office)
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
The Probate Office is located in the Dallas County Courthouse in downtown Selma. The office handles the recording of legal documents, marriage licenses, and probate matters.
Parking and Access
Public parking is available around the courthouse square and on adjacent streets.
Filing Process
Step 1: Determine If Probate Is Necessary
Before filing, assess whether formal probate is required:
- Summary Distribution (Small Estates): If the estate consists of personal property only and does not exceed the statutory threshold (approx. $47,000 as of 2026), a simplified summary distribution may be available.
- Joint Tenancy with Right of Survivorship: Property owned as joint tenants with right of survivorship passes automatically to the surviving owner.
- Trust administration: Assets held in a living trust generally do not require probate.
Step 2: File the Petition
If formal probate is needed, file a Petition for Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration with the Dallas County Probate Court. Include:
- Petition for Letters
- Original Will and codicils (if any)
- Certified death certificate
- Filing fee amount (approx. $360–$380)
- List of heirs and next of kin
- Waivers and Consents from heirs (if applicable)
Alabama utilizes the Alacourt system, but pro se litigants typically file in person or by mail. Check with the clerk for specific e-filing requirements.
Step 3: Provide Notice
After filing, you must:
- Mail notice of the hearing to all heirs, beneficiaries, and interested parties at least 10 days before the hearing
- Publish notice in a newspaper of general circulation in Dallas County for three successive weeks
Step 4: Attend the Hearing
The court will schedule a hearing on the petition, typically 3 to 6 weeks after filing. At the hearing, the judge reviews the petition and, if approved, issues Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration.
Step 5: Administer the Estate
After receiving Letters, the personal representative must:
- Publish notice to creditors in The Selma Times-Journal within 30 days of appointment (creditors have 6 months to file claims)
- Inventory and appraise all estate assets within 2 months
- Pay valid creditor claims
- File federal and state tax returns as needed
- Distribute assets to beneficiaries
- File a final accounting and petition for discharge
Local Requirements
Dallas County-Specific Procedures
- Local Forms: While state forms are often used, the Dallas County Probate Court may have specific local cover sheets or requirements. Contact the clerk.
- Bond: Personal representatives in intestate cases (or where the will doesn't waive bond) must post a bond, often based on the value of the personal property.
- Hearings: Hearings are generally held in person at the courthouse.
- Publication: Notice must be published in a newspaper of general circulation in Dallas County for three successive weeks.
Always check with the Probate Clerk for the most current local rules and fee schedules.
Timeline & Fees
Filing Fees (Dallas County)
- Petition for Letters: approximately $360
- Small Estate / Summary Distribution: approximately $200
- Certified copies of Letters: approximately $5 per certified copy
- Publication costs: approximately $150-$300 depending on the newspaper
- Recording fees: $3 per page (typical)
Alabama law sets statutory fees for personal representatives at a maximum of 2.5% of receipts and 2.5% of disbursements, unless the court approves additional compensation for extraordinary services.
Payment Methods
The court accepts cash, money orders, or cashier's checks (personal checks may not be accepted; credit cards might have a fee).
Estimated Timelines
- Simple estates (no disputes, limited assets): 6-9 months
- Average estates: 9-15 months
- Complex or contested estates: 18 months to 2+ years
The creditor claim period in Alabama is 6 months, which sets a minimum duration for most formal probate cases.
Local Resources
Dallas County Court Resources
- Court Website: dallascounty-al.org
- Probate Self-Help: Alabama Probate Judges Association
- Alabama Probate Forms: Administrative Office of Courts
Legal Aid and Attorney Referrals
- Alabama State Bar: (334) 269-1515 — Lawyer Referral Service
- Legal Services Alabama: (866) 456-4995 — Civil legal aid for low-income residents
- State Bar Lawyer Referral: alabar.org
Publication
- The Selma Times-Journal: (334) 875-2110 — Primary newspaper for legal notices