Most of the time putting a will through probate goes smoothly, and the deceased's assets get distributed to their heirs according to their wishes within a reasonable amount of time. Sometimes, though, a family member or other heir will challenge the will's validity in...
Year: 2021
When should I update my estate plan?
There are certain times in the estate planner’s life when they may want to take a hard look at their estate plan to determine if it still makes sense for them. Just like when they set up their estate plan, estate planning tools are flexible to help estate planners...
Modifying your parenting plan in Tennessee
As part of the divorce process, courts will require you to come up with a parenting plan to address child custody issues. A parenting plan will typically contain details of the custody arrangement, including how much time the child will spend with each parent, how the...
Prioritizing end-of-life concerns during estate planning
As our parents age, we want to make their lives are as comfortable as possible as health conditions associated with old age begin to progressively affect their quality of life. Although the focus of estate planning for residents of Tennessee and elsewhere is often on...
Is your relationship with your child being ruined by alienation?
Do you feel like your child has suddenly turned against you and that you’re being cut out of his or her life? If so, then it’s possible that you and your child are being subjected to parental alienation. Should this be the case, then you need to take quick action to...
Equitable distribution of property explained
When a married couple is contemplating the necessity of divorce, they will likely have many questions about the process. Whether the divorce is amicable or not, the Tennessee courts will have a significant role to play in many issues. One of the primary issues is how...
I’ve been named executor for a small estate: what do I do?
When a loved one passes away, they often leave a will detailing how they would like their assets and property to be handled. In the will, they may name an executor – usually a family member or close friend – someone they trust to see that their last wishes are carried...
The four types of alimony
Alimony is one of the more controversial subjects in divorce law. Many people who are going through a divorce are eager to cut ties with their ex, and they resent the continued obligation and dependency that alimony implies. Still, alimony can be an important way to...
How do JOAs interact with POAs?
If there is one positive thing that has happened over the past two years, it is that many of us have finally decided to get our estate plan together. Recent high school graduates are ensuring that their bank and student accounts are joint ownership accounts. Parents...
Important power of attorney clauses
A power of attorney helps assure that a family member, friend, or other trusted advisor can act on your behalf, handle your assets, and manage your affairs if you ever become incapacitated. There are certain issues you should carefully consider before signing this...