Alabama § 26-2A-71 - Parental Appointment of Guardian for Minor.

Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 26-2A-71 — Parental Appointment of Guardian for Minor., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 26-2A-71. Parental Appointment of Guardian for Minor.

(a) The parent of an unmarried minor may appoint a guardian for the minor by will, or other writing signed by the parent and attested by at least two witnesses or acknowledged.

(b) Subject to the right of the minor under Section 26-2A-72, if both parents are dead or incapacitated or the surviving parent has no parental rights or has been adjudged to be incapacitated, a parental appointment becomes effective when the guardian seasonably files an acceptance in the court in which a nominating instrument is probated, or, in the case of a nontestamentary nominating instrument, in the court at the place where the minor resides or is present. If two or more appointments are made, the latter in time has priority, and if both parents are dead or incapacitated, an effective appointment by the parent, who was eligible to make the appointment and who dies or became incapacitated later in time, has priority.

(c) A parental appointment effected by filing the guardian’s acceptance under a will probated in the state of the testator’s domicile is effective in this state.

(d) Upon acceptance of appointment, the guardian shall give written notice as to when the appointment is effective to the minor and to the person having the minor’s care or the minor’s nearest adult relative.

Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 26-2A-71

What does Code of Alabama § 26-2A-71 cover?

Section 26-2A-71 ("Parental Appointment of Guardian for Minor.") is part of the Code of Alabama, the codified statutory law of Alabama. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Alabama § 26-2A-71?

A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 26-2A-71" (Alabama). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Alabama law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Alabama official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Alabama attorney.

How does Alabama § 26-2A-71 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Alabama can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Alabama.