Probate Judge

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The Probate Court hears and resolves certain legal matters, such as:
  • Wills and Estates
  • Adoptions
  • Guardianships & Conservatorships
  • Mental Health Involuntary Commitment cases
  • Eminent Domain/Land Condemnation cases
  • Change of Name
  • Legitimation of Children
Many of the judicial functions of the Probate Judge's Office are actually administrative. These duties are judicial because they require a decision by a judicial officer, who is the Probate Judge.  All judicial decisions by the Probate Judge have the same validity as a general court of law and can be appealed to a higher court.

The Probate Chief Clerk can also perform judicial duties within the jurisdiction of the Probate Court, in uncontested matters.

The Probate Judge has the judicial authority to admit wills to probate, appoint executors and issue letters testamentary, appoint administrators in intestate estates, as well as to replace or remove any of the above.

Duties and powers of the Probate Judge include: 
  • To determine the admissibility to probate of decedents' wills, and appoint executors to carry out the wishes of those wills so admitted.
  • To appoint administrators to apply Alabama law concerning the distribution of the assets of those who die without a will.
  • To grant adoptions.
  • To appoint and remove guardians and/or conservators for minor children and 
  • for incompetent or incapacitated adults. 
  • To conduct hearings to determine whether to commit persons with mental illness who pose a danger to self or others to mental institutions for involuntary treatment.
  • To hear and decide on petitions for condemnation of privately owned land.
  • To hear and decide name change and legitimation petitions.
The mission of the Lee County Probate Judge's Office is to provide an impartial and accessible forum for the just and timely resolution of those judicial proceedings within the court's jurisdiction, so as to protect individual rights and liberties and promote public trust and confidence, while abiding by applicable law.

Due to the complexity of laws and procedures of the Probate Court, you are advised to seek the advice of an attorney. We are prohibited by law from offering any legal advice.

We look forward to serving you!