Owning property in both Alabama and Florida can complicate estate administration. When someone passes away with real estate outside their home state, the family may need to open an ancillary probate in the other state. This process adds cost, delay, and stress. Our guide explains how ancillary probate works in Alabama and Florida—and the planning tools, like trusts and special deeds, that can help families avoid it.

After American Pickers star Frank Fritz’s passing, a contested will and $6 million estate battle have raised major questions about capacity, guardianship, and inheritance. His case shows how illness and guardianship complicate estate planning—and how disputes can delay the administration of an estate. Families in Alabama and Florida can learn from his story: plan early, document capacity, and work with an estate planning attorney to avoid costly courtroom battles.

In 2025, Alabama raised the small estate threshold to about $47,000, allowing more families to use the simplified probate process. This update makes transferring assets faster, less costly, and less stressful. Our guide explains how the small estate process works, the rights of surviving spouses, and strategies to minimize probate. Learn how these changes may impact your family and why consulting an Alabama estate planning attorney can help you plan ahead.

Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and legacy—yet many people delay or make critical mistakes. From procrastination and outdated documents to neglecting beneficiary designations and improperly funded trusts, these errors can create conflict and unnecessary costs. Learn about the biggest estate planning mistakes we see and how to avoid them to ensure your wishes are honored.

A durable power of attorney gives an agent broad authority to manage finances if the principal becomes incapacitated. Serving as an agent is both an honor and a fiduciary duty with legal risks. Agents must act in the principal’s best interest, keep accurate records, manage property responsibly, and stay within the scope of authority. By following best practices and seeking legal guidance, agents can protect their loved one’s assets while avoiding costly mistakes.

Choosing the right people to manage your estate plan is just as important as the documents themselves. Your “A-Team” — agents, trustees, executors, and guardians — will carry out your wishes when you can’t. It is essential to select trustworthy, responsible individuals who understand your values. Naming backups and communicating with them ensures your plan works smoothly. At Provident Law, we help you build a confident, reliable estate planning team.

When Bob Marley died at 36, he left no will—sparking decades of legal battles over his music, image, and estate. Despite preaching peace and wisdom, Marley’s lack of planning left his loved ones in conflict. Learn what went wrong, and how to protect your own legacy with clear estate planning. Do not leave your future—and your family's peace of mind—to chance.

Buying a new home or investment property is exciting — but without the right estate planning steps, it could create headaches for your family. Before closing, be sure to align your property title with your estate plan, update your insurance coverage, review beneficiary designations, and confirm your property is fully insured. Smart planning now helps Alabama and Florida homeowners protect their investment and avoid probate.

Each Fourth of July, we celebrate freedom with fireworks that quickly fade—but your legacy should not. Estate planning protects what matters most: your values, your loved ones, and your future. Whether you have a little or a lot, a strong estate plan ensures your wishes are honored and your family is protected. This Independence Day, take the first step toward building a legacy that truly lasts.

Estate planning is not just for the wealthy or elderly—it is essential for parents with minor children. From naming a legal guardian to protecting your child’s inheritance, a well-crafted estate plan ensures your family is protected if the unexpected happens. Learn why it is never too early to start planning and how Alabama families can gain peace of mind with the right legal documents.

Guidance from a Birmingham, Alabama estate planning law firm. Inheriting money or property can be a life-changing experience—but without...

Guidance from a Birmingham, Alabama estate planning law firm. Starting a conversation with your parents about estate planning is not...

Guidance from a Birmingham, Alabama estate planning law firm. Aretha Franklin gave the world decades of unforgettable music—but in death,...

Losing a loved one is never easy and knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming. In the first few days, focus on caring for yourself while handling immediate tasks like funeral arrangements, locating their will, and notifying key institutions. Avoid using their funds and keep track of expenses. Reach out to Social Security, the VA, and insurance providers for benefits. Take it one step at a time, support is available when you need it.

With the right planning, parents and young adults can ensure that parents have the authority to assist in case of an emergency.

Learn about incapacity planning and protect your family's future. Discover essential legal documents for effective incapacity planning.

Guidance from a Birmingham, Alabama estate planning law firm. If you are like most people, you have probably heard of trusts but may not...

When a loved one passes away, the last thing their surviving family members want to do is track down their assets and navigate the...

Guidance from a Birmingham, Alabama estate planning law firm. Do you know the consequences of dying without a will or trust in Alabama?...