Columbia Estate Planning & Probate Attorney
Estate planning is often viewed as a morbid topic or something that you will address in time, but the truth is that people of all ages and backgrounds should consider their options. Statistics indicate that 2 out of 3 adults in the US do not have a will, which can lead to legal hassles and challenges for loved ones when wrapping up your final affairs through the probate process. Plus, many people do not have arrangements in place if they become incapacitated.
When you realize the pitfalls that hit your interests and create headaches for loved ones, you can see how estate planning should be a priority. With a proper structure in place, you can protect your legacy and achieve your intentions. You can trust our lawyers at Fort, Holloway, & Rogers, LLC to advise you on options, including ways to minimize or eliminate probate proceedings. Please reach out to set up a consultation with a Columbia estate planning & probate attorney, and review some important details.
Estate Planning and Tennessee Probate Laws
One of the most effective ways to demonstrate the importance of estate planning is to describe your options and explain the unfortunate situations they help you avoid:
- Your will is a core component of your estate plan. In it, you name an executor who will manage your estate after death and make distributions to beneficiaries. Without a will, Tennessee law takes over. Your estate is distributed to your heirs under the laws of intestacy, and you do not get a choice on who will act as personal representative.
- In an advance directive for health care, you name an agent who will make medical decisions if you are incapacitated. Your family will need to go to court and have a conservator appointed if you do not have an advance directive.
- A power of attorney for property operates in a similar fashion, so you will name an agent to handle your real estate and financial affairs on your behalf. Without a power of attorney, your loved ones will still need to go through conservatorship proceedings.
Our Columbia estate planning and probate lawyers at Fort, Holloway, & Rogers, LLC can provide additional details on these documents and advise you on creating a plan that suits your needs.
Assistance with the Probate Process
There are various strategies to minimize or avoid probate, but court involvement may be necessary for many estates. Fort, Holloway, & Rogers, LLC represents executors named in a will, as well as personal representatives appointed by the court in an intestate estate. We can assist with opening the estate, preparing essential documents, and dealing with creditors. Our attorneys will advise you throughout the process and guide you when it comes to making distributions to beneficiaries.
A Columbia Estate Planning and Probate Lawyer Will Advise You on Options
When you are ready to open the conversation about estate planning, our team at Fort, Holloway, & Rogers, LLC is prepared to guide you in making informed decisions. Please contact us at 931-901-2300 or check out our website to set up a consultation with a Columbia estate planning and probate attorney.
