Ala. Code § 43-2-234: Issuance of Letters of Administration.

If, within the period of said 12 weeks, evidence satisfactory to the probate court of the continuance in life of the said decedent shall not be forthcoming, it shall be the duty of the court to issue the letters of administration to the party thereto entitled, and the said letters, until revoked, and all acts done in pursuance thereof, and in reliance thereupon, shall be as valid as if the supposed decedent were actually dead.