Attorney R. David Allen, Jr.
What Types of Legal Matters Do You Handle?
In my twenty-plus years of legal practice, I have focused exclusively on matters related to estate planning and probate court matters, which extends to real estate. I have worked as a Trust Officer in two different trust departments, which I think provides a unique perspective in the estate planning and estate administration area. I have a major focus on helping family clients when a loved one dies. My extensive experience in the field allows me to choose options which shorten and simplify the estate administration process, which obviously cuts down on cost. At the same time, we do not want to miss anything! I also enjoy handling guardianships which provide another opportunity to help families in crisis. In the past, I have advised families on mental health cases as well.
What is your philosophy about estate planning and probate?
Probate Court is the “helping court,” so I think of my practice in the same way. You have to be “people-focused” instead of “transaction-focused.” There is no bright-line answer to most of the issues we help clients tackle.
Estate Planning is a process which starts with getting to know clients, their priorities, and their challenges. I enjoy helping clients look at every aspect, whether it be preserving their legacy or figuring out family dynamics. So often, we end up finalizing a very different plan than what the client conceived in the beginning. In this day of online forms, I think it is important to develop documents which are comprehensive, tailored to Alabama law, and simple as possible. It is so important for the Client to understand their plans.
What are your qualifications?
I have practiced in Alabama for 21 years and am a Member of the Alabama State Bar and the Birmingham Bar Association. I serve on the State Bar Lawyer’s Assistance Committee. My practice has always focused on estate planning, probate, and real estate. I have taught classes at Birmingham School of Law and various continuing education programs for attorneys. I have particularly enjoyed participating in pro bono will clinics for First Responders, Veterans, and senior citizens.
During my legal career, I have served as a Trust Officer and Investment Advisor with several financial institutions in Birmingham. I am also a graduate of the Southern Trust School, sponsored by the Alabama Bankers Association.
I received my Juris Doctor from Cumberland School of Law, Samford University in 2002 and completed my undergraduate degree at Washington & Lee University, with a B.A. in English in 1990.
Tell me more about yourself
I am a U.S. Army Veteran, having served in the U.S. Army Reserve. I grew up in Anniston, Alabama but my family and I have lived in Birmingham for almost 20 years. I enjoy golf, tennis, fishing, and bluegrass music.
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