Joseph Brent Helms

J. Brent Helms is the founder of Helms Law Group in Fairhope, Alabama. A former Special Probate Judge, he concentrates his practice in estate planning and state, local, and municipal law.

Mr. Helms brings direct judicial experience to his legal work. Formerly, as a Special Probate Judge, he ruled on contested wills, trust disputes, guardianships, conservatorships, and estate administration matters. He also served as Chief Clerk of the Probate Office and was appointed as co-county administrator and co-county conservator in complex proceedings involving unrepresented estates and incapacitated individuals.

In private practice, Mr. Helms advises individuals, families, fiduciaries, and business owners on estate planning, asset protection, and long-term wealth structures. His work emphasizes disciplined drafting and planning designed to withstand legal scrutiny and prevent avoidable disputes.

He also serves as counsel to municipalities and public authorities across Alabama, advising on governance, ordinances, public contracts, open meetings requirements, and statutory compliance. His government work regularly involves advising elected officials and public institutions on lawful decision-making under Alabama law.

Mr. Helms has represented members of the Alabama Legislature in constitutional and statutory litigation and has reviewed public contracts exceeding $4 billion in value. Earlier in his career, he assisted in the passage of Alabama legislation addressing elder abuse, neglect, and financial exploitation.

He earned his J.D. from the Jones School of Law and is admitted to practice in Alabama. Mr. Helms is fluent in Spanish.