Alabama § 43-2-42 - Order of Grant of Administration.
Full text of Alabama Code of Alabama § 43-2-42 — Order of Grant of Administration., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 43-2-42. Order of Grant of Administration.
(a) Administration of an intestate’s estate must be granted to one of the persons herein named if the person is willing to accept and satisfactory to serve in the following order:
(1) The husband or widow.
(2) The next of kin entitled to share in the distribution of the estate.
(3) The largest creditor of the estate residing in this state.
(4) Any other person as the judge of probate may appoint.
(b) Notwithstanding the provisions of subsection (a) of this section, in all counties having a population of 400,000 or more, according to the last or any subsequent federal census, or in any county having an elected general or county administrator, administration of an intestate’s estate must be granted to some one of the persons hereinafter named, if willing to accept and satisfactory to serve, in the following order:
(1) The husband or widow.
(2) The next of kin entitled to share in the distribution of the estate.
(3) The largest creditor of the estate residing in this state.
(4) The county or general administrator.
(5) Any other person as the judge of probate may appoint.
Source: official Alabama text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Alabama § 43-2-42
What does Code of Alabama § 43-2-42 cover?
Section 43-2-42 ("Order of Grant of Administration.") 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 § 43-2-42?
A common citation format is "Code of Alabama § 43-2-42" (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 § 43-2-42 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.