Complete Guide to Wills and Estate Planning in Henderson, Tennessee
Planning a will is an important step for residents of Henderson who want to protect their family and property. At Jay Johnson Law Firm we help people prepare clear, legally sound wills tailored to Tennessee law and your personal priorities. A properly drafted will directs how assets are distributed, names a personal representative to handle the estate, and can specify guardianship for minor children. When a will reflects your current wishes it reduces uncertainty and conflict for loved ones. We focus on practical planning that fits your situation, whether you have modest assets or more complex estate concerns.
Many people put off making a will because it feels overwhelming or private, but leaving matters unresolved often creates unnecessary legal delays and family stress. A will crafted under Tennessee law simplifies administration of your estate and helps ensure your intentions are followed. Creating a will also creates an opportunity to coordinate with beneficiary designations and other estate planning tools so your assets pass as you intend. We work with clients in Henderson to gather personal and financial details, review family dynamics, and build a will that reflects priorities while avoiding common pitfalls that can cause disputes later.
Why a Will Matters for Henderson Families
A will provides clear legal direction for distribution of assets and appointment of an estate representative, which helps reduce confusion and expense after a loved one dies. For Henderson residents, a will can also set specific arrangements for real property and personal items, name guardians for minor children, and create instructions for funeral and burial preferences. Without a valid will, Tennessee intestacy rules dictate who inherits, which may not align with your wishes. Preparing a will in advance helps protect family relationships, streamline probate, and provide peace of mind knowing that your choices are documented and more likely to be honored.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Approach
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves Henderson and the surrounding areas with practical estate planning and probate services focused on clear communication and reliable representation. Our team handles will drafting, review, updates, and guidance through the probate process with a focus on personalized solutions. We take time to listen to client goals and family circumstances so documents reflect real life. The firm provides straightforward explanations of Tennessee law and helps clients make informed decisions about asset distribution, fiduciary appointments, and related planning steps. We make ourselves available to answer questions throughout the planning process and after documents are completed.
Understanding Wills and How They Work in Tennessee
A will is a legal document that expresses how you want your property allocated after death and names a personal representative to administer your estate. In Tennessee certain formalities must be observed for a will to be valid, such as signature and witness requirements. Wills can be simple or include provisions for trusts, special distributions, and guardianship of minors. It is also possible to execute codicils to modify an existing will or to replace a will entirely. Regular review is important when family circumstances, assets, or state law change, ensuring the document continues to reflect current wishes and remains effective under applicable rules.
Wills interact with other estate planning tools such as beneficiary designations, transfer-on-death settings, joint ownership arrangements, and powers of attorney. Because some assets bypass probate through these methods, an effective plan considers all asset types to align outcomes with your intentions. For many Henderson residents, wills provide the foundation for distributing personal property and assets that don’t have separate beneficiary arrangements. We assist clients in inventorying assets and coordinating documents so distributions are smooth and consistent with the overall estate plan, minimizing unintended results and administrative burdens for survivors.
What a Will Does and Why It’s Useful
A will names beneficiaries, appoints a personal representative, and allows you to direct how debts and taxes will be handled from your estate. It can also include guardianship designations for minor children and instructions for handling sentimental items. In Tennessee a will becomes operative after death and typically must be submitted to probate to transfer title to real and personal property. While some assets transfer outside probate, a will remains a vital tool to handle assets that do not have designated beneficiaries and to state your preferences regarding distribution and administration of your estate in a legally recognized form.
Key Components of a Valid Will and Related Procedures
A valid will generally requires a written document signed by the testator and witnessed according to state law. Core components include identification of the testator, clear beneficiary designations, appointment of a personal representative, and specific distribution instructions. The process of creating a will also involves reviewing asset ownership, discussing potential tax or creditor issues, and planning for incapacity through complementary documents like powers of attorney. After death, the will typically goes through probate, during which the personal representative follows court procedures to settle debts, distribute assets, and close the estate in accordance with the will and Tennessee law.
Key Terms and Glossary for Wills and Probate
Understanding common terms helps demystify the process of creating a will and administering an estate. Terms like beneficiary, personal representative, intestacy, probate, and codicil frequently arise when planning and settling affairs. Knowing what each term means and how it applies in Tennessee can clarify choices about guardianship, asset transfer, and the roles of those appointed to act on your behalf. We provide plain-language explanations and relate terminology to practical decisions so clients feel confident about the documents they sign and the actions their representatives will take after a death or incapacity occurs.
Personal Representative
The personal representative is the person appointed to administer an estate after someone dies, sometimes called an executor in other jurisdictions. This individual gathers assets, pays valid debts and taxes, and distributes property according to the will and court instructions. Choosing a trustworthy, organized person who understands the administrative responsibilities is important because the role involves legal obligations and potential interactions with the court. For many clients a family member serves this role, while others prefer a professional or a close friend who can navigate paperwork, coordinate with banks, and communicate with beneficiaries during the probate process.
Intestacy
Intestacy refers to the state of having no valid will at the time of death, which causes Tennessee law to determine how assets are distributed among surviving relatives. Distribution under intestacy may not match what the deceased would have preferred, and it can lead to disputes or delays. Intestacy rules also determine who has authority to administer the estate. Executing a clear will removes uncertainty by specifying beneficiaries and appointing a personal representative, allowing more precise control over how assets and guardianship issues are handled when a person passes away.
Beneficiary
A beneficiary is any person or entity named to receive property or benefits from your estate under a will or through nonprobate mechanisms like life insurance or retirement accounts. Beneficiaries can be individuals, charities, trusts, or organizations. It is important to name beneficiaries carefully and to confirm that beneficiary designations on accounts are current because those designations often take precedence over will provisions. Clear naming and backup beneficiaries reduce the chance of unintended outcomes and help ensure that assets go to the intended recipients after your death.
Codicil
A codicil is a written amendment to an existing will used to modify or clarify specific provisions without rewriting the entire document. While codicils can be useful for small changes, creating a new will is often clearer when multiple revisions are needed. Codicils must meet the same legal formalities as wills to be valid in Tennessee. Keeping estate documents organized and periodically reviewing them helps determine whether a codicil suffices or whether a complete replacement will better reflect updated wishes, family changes, or new asset arrangements.
Comparing Limited Options and Comprehensive Estate Planning
When planning for the future individuals may choose a limited approach such as a simple will or a more comprehensive plan that includes trusts and coordinated beneficiary arrangements. A limited approach can be economical and quick, suitable for straightforward estates. However, more comprehensive planning addresses a wider range of scenarios, potentially avoiding probate for certain assets, protecting privacy, and offering clearer management of assets if incapacity occurs. Which path is appropriate depends on goals, family dynamics, asset types, and the desire to minimize probate administration and potential disputes after death.
When a Simple Will May Be Enough:
Small or Simple Estates
A straightforward estate with limited assets and clear beneficiaries often benefits from a simple will that provides basic directions and names a personal representative. For many Henderson residents who own a primary residence, modest savings, and personal belongings, a plain will can cover primary distribution needs and provide guardianship names for minor children. Choosing a simple approach can keep costs lower and documentation minimal while achieving the essential goal of stating intentions and avoiding intestacy. Regular review ensures the simple will remains aligned with life changes or new assets that might require additional planning.
Clear Beneficiary Designations
When most assets pass outside probate via beneficiary designations or joint ownership, a basic will can address remaining items without complex trust structures. Accounts such as retirement plans and life insurance often allow direct beneficiary naming, which can streamline distribution and limit probate involvement. In these situations, a will serves as a backstop for any property not otherwise transferred and provides a clear appointment of a personal representative. It remains important to routinely review beneficiary forms and ownership arrangements to ensure they align with the will and current intentions.
When Broader Estate Planning Makes Sense:
Complex Asset Structures and Tax Considerations
Comprehensive planning is advisable when assets include multiple properties, business interests, retirement accounts, or investments that could complicate administration or raise tax concerns. A broader plan may incorporate trusts to manage the timing and conditions of distributions, protect beneficiaries who may be minors or have special needs, or reduce the likelihood of probate for certain assets. This type of planning coordinates documents and asset ownership in ways that can simplify administration and address financial or family circumstances that a basic will may not fully resolve.
Desire for Privacy and Streamlined Administration
Comprehensive planning can reduce public exposure of estate affairs by minimizing probate assets and providing mechanisms for private transfer through trusts or other arrangements. For families concerned about privacy or who wish to avoid lengthy court proceedings, broader planning anticipates potential disputes and coordinates legal documents to ease administration. Thoughtful preparation can also set clear successor management for family businesses and outline procedures to minimize disruption for heirs, ensuring that transition of assets and responsibilities is handled in a predictable and organized manner.
Benefits of a Coordinated Estate Plan
A comprehensive estate plan aligns wills, beneficiary designations, powers of attorney, and trusts so each document supports the others and limits unintended outcomes. This coordinated approach can minimize probate, provide clearer instructions for guardianship and fiduciary roles, and ensure assets pass according to your preferences. It also addresses incapacity planning so decision-makers are already authorized to manage finances or healthcare if you cannot. By taking a holistic view, families in Henderson can reduce friction, avoid common administrative delays, and help provide a smoother transition for loved ones when difficult times occur.
Comprehensive planning also helps identify and remedy potential conflicts between documents or outdated beneficiary designations that might undermine your goals. It provides opportunities to consider tax implications, gift planning, and ways to protect vulnerable beneficiaries while preserving flexibility. Implementing integrated documents improves the chances that assets will be distributed as intended and reduces the administrative burden on heirs. Regular review and updates maintain alignment with life events like marriage, divorce, births, and changes in financial circumstances, keeping the plan effective over time.
Reducing Probate and Administrative Burden
One primary benefit of comprehensive planning is reducing the assets that must go through probate, which can save time and expenses for the estate and family. Strategies such as titling property, creating trusts, and updating beneficiary forms work together to limit court involvement and simplify transfer of ownership. Reducing probate can also help preserve privacy and allow heirs to obtain assets more quickly. Thoughtful planning anticipates common probate issues and addresses them proactively so the nominated personal representative can administer the estate with clearer guidance and fewer procedural obstacles.
Clarifying Roles and Expectations for Loved Ones
Comprehensive plans clearly name who will manage financial affairs, children, and health decisions, reducing uncertainty for family members when a difficult time arises. That clarity helps reduce disagreements by documenting intentions and setting expectations about distributions and responsibilities. Well-written documents also provide instructions for handling specific assets and can include contingency provisions that address unexpected events. By laying out decisions in advance, families gain a structure for transition that supports smoother administration and better preserves relationships during emotionally challenging circumstances.
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Practical Tips for Preparing Your Will
Gather important documents and beneficiary information
Collecting documents and up-to-date beneficiary details ahead of a planning meeting saves time and helps ensure accuracy in the final will. Important items include deeds, account statements, life insurance policies, retirement plan beneficiary forms, and titles for vehicles. Also list personal contacts, family relationships, and any special wishes for certain items or beneficiaries. Having a clear inventory allows for a more efficient drafting process and reduces the risk that an asset is overlooked. This preparation helps create a will that reflects a comprehensive view of your estate and avoids later amendments solely to add omitted property.
Consider guardianship and decision-makers early
Review and update documents periodically
Estate planning is an ongoing process that should reflect changes in family composition, asset ownership, and personal goals. Review your will and related documents after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or significant changes in finances. Updating beneficiary designations and titles can prevent conflicts between documents and ensure that your current intentions are honored. Regular reviews also let you adjust for changes in Tennessee law or tax rules that may affect distribution or administration. A routine check every few years helps maintain alignment between your plan and your circumstances.
Why Henderson Residents Should Make a Will
Making a will gives you legal control over who receives your assets and who will manage your estate after you die. For residents of Henderson, having a will avoids default state rules that may diverge from your preferences, and it lets you designate guardians for minor children, name a trusted personal representative, and provide specific bequests to family, friends, or charities. A will also sets expectations for handling debts and expenses, which helps speed the settlement process. Taking these steps reduces uncertainty and helps your loved ones carry out your wishes with less stress during a difficult time.
Beyond distribution of property, a will contributes to overall estate organization and complements other planning documents that address incapacity or nonprobate transfers. Preparing a will also prompts a useful review of accounts, beneficiary forms, and property titles, which can reveal opportunities to simplify or strengthen your plan. For individuals with blended families, minor children, or unique property concerns, a will allows customization that supports fair treatment and clear direction. Investing time in drafting a will now can prevent disputes later and provide reassurance that important decisions are recorded.
Common Reasons People Create or Update Wills
People create or revise wills after life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, death of a previously named beneficiary, or acquisition of significant assets like a home or business. Changes in family dynamics or financial circumstances often necessitate updated directives so that intended beneficiaries and guardians remain current. Additionally, those who have not addressed arrangements for incapacity may add powers of attorney alongside a will. Periodic review ensures the will reflects modern realities and minimizes unintended outcomes that can arise if documents remain unchanged for long periods.
Marriage or Partnership Changes
Marriage, remarriage, or dissolution of a marriage commonly prompts revision of wills to reflect new relationships, updated beneficiary choices, and guardianship decisions for children. These life changes alter priorities and often require reallocation of assets or appointment of new fiduciaries. Reviewing and updating estate documents after such events ensures distributions follow current intentions and avoids relying on outdated provisions that could create confusion. It also provides an opportunity to coordinate estate planning with financial decisions made during these transitions.
Births and Growing Families
The birth or adoption of a child typically triggers a need to name legal guardians, provide for the child’s financial future, and consider how assets will be managed until they reach adulthood. A will is the primary document to make those designations and to set aside bequests or trust arrangements when desired. Parents benefit from reviewing beneficiary designations and ensuring that the estate plan protects the child’s needs and reflects the parents’ intentions for upbringing and care in the event of untimely death.
Change in Asset Complexity
Acquiring significant assets such as real estate, business interests, or investment portfolios often requires more detailed planning than a simple will can provide. Greater asset complexity can create tax considerations, management questions, and potential conflicts among heirs. Addressing these issues with coordinated estate planning documents helps ensure smoother transition and administration. Updating or creating new estate documents after acquiring major assets ensures that ownership and beneficiary arrangements work together and that the distribution of property aligns with your overall objectives.
Wills and Estate Planning Services in Henderson, TN
Jay Johnson Law Firm in Henderson offers wills and estate planning services designed to help clients protect their families and plan for the future. We guide individuals through document preparation, review existing wills for necessary updates, and assist with coordinating beneficiary designations and related matters. Our approach emphasizes clear communication and practical solutions tailored to Tennessee law and local probate procedures. Contact us to discuss your goals, schedule a planning review, and take the steps needed to document your intentions and reduce administrative burdens for those you care about.
Why Work with Jay Johnson Law Firm for Your Will
Choosing an attorney to prepare a will means working with a professional familiar with Tennessee legal requirements and local probate practice. We prioritize clear, comprehensible documents that reflect your wishes and reduce the chance of disputes. Our team explains options in plain language and helps identify potential issues before they become problems, such as inconsistent beneficiary forms or outdated provisions. We also assist in identifying the right person to serve as personal representative and offer guidance on coordination with other estate planning tools to achieve the outcomes you want.
Clients value practical counsel and responsiveness during the planning process, including help with reviewing financial documents and ensuring required formalities are observed. We prepare wills that meet Tennessee standards and walk clients through signing and witnessing so the documents are effective. For clients with additional needs, we provide options that expand beyond a basic will to trusts or coordinated plans that reduce administrative burdens. Our goal is to provide durable, understandable documents and to support families during transitions by offering reliable guidance throughout the process.
We serve Henderson and nearby communities with accessible counsel and a focus on client communication. Whether you are creating your first will or revisiting an older document, we take time to learn about your family and assets and provide options that reflect your priorities. Our office can be reached at 731-206-9700 to schedule a consultation. We assist with document execution, storage considerations, and periodic reviews so that your plan remains current and effective as circumstances change over time.
Schedule a Will Planning Consultation Today
How We Handle Will Preparation and Probate Matters
Our process for creating a will starts with an initial consultation to understand your family situation, assets, and objectives. We then prepare draft documents, review them with you, and make any requested revisions. After execution we provide copies and guidance on storage and beneficiary coordination. If probate becomes necessary, we assist the personal representative through filing, inventory, creditor notices, and distribution. We emphasize clear timelines and open communication so clients and their families know what to expect at each step of administration or document implementation.
Step 1: Information Gathering and Planning
We begin by gathering personal and financial information needed to prepare a will that reflects your goals. This includes asset lists, account titles, beneficiary designations, family details, and any existing estate documents. During this phase we discuss guardianship preferences, desired distributions, and any special provisions for particular items or beneficiaries. The information-gathering step ensures that the resulting will addresses relevant assets and circumstances and reduces the need for later amendments or corrections once the document is signed.
Discussing Goals and Family Priorities
We talk through your objectives for asset distribution, guardianship, and any specific instructions for sentimental items or charitable gifts. Understanding family relationships and potential concerns helps us draft clear, practical language tailored to your situation. This conversation explores the practical effects of beneficiary designations, joint ownership, and potential probate implications, providing a roadmap for how the will will integrate with other estate planning tools. Clear communication at this stage reduces ambiguity and helps prevent unintended results after your passing.
Reviewing Documents and Titles
We review deeds, account statements, insurance policies, retirement plan beneficiary forms, and any existing estate documents to ensure alignment with your will. Identifying accounts that pass outside probate and confirming ownership arrangements prevents conflicting instructions. This review also highlights where updates are needed to beneficiary designations or titles so that the will works as intended. Addressing these details while drafting the will minimizes surprises during administration and helps make the distribution process smoother for your heirs.
Step 2: Drafting and Reviewing the Will
After collecting information we draft a will that reflects your directives for distribution, appointment of a personal representative, and any special provisions. We present the draft for your review and discuss any necessary revisions or clarifications. This collaborative review ensures the language matches your intentions and that technical details comply with Tennessee requirements. We take time to explain provisions in plain terms so you understand the practical effect of each clause and can make informed decisions before finalizing the document.
Preparing Clear, Unambiguous Language
Drafting focuses on clarity to reduce the risk of contested provisions or administrative confusion. We use direct language to name beneficiaries, specify distributions, and define any conditions or trusts. Clear identification reduces ambiguities about who receives what and how the personal representative should proceed. Well-drafted provisions make court review more straightforward if probate is required and help ensure the testator’s intentions are carried out efficiently and predictably for heirs.
Explaining Execution Requirements
We explain the signing and witnessing formalities necessary under Tennessee law so the will becomes legally effective. Clients receive guidance on appropriate witnesses, notarization where applicable, and safe handling of original documents. Understanding execution steps prevents challenges based on technical defects and provides confidence that the document will be accepted in probate. We also advise on secure storage and whether copies should be shared with the appointed personal representative or stored in a safe location to ease access when needed.
Step 3: Execution, Storage, and Ongoing Review
Once the will is signed and witnessed we discuss options for storing the original, sharing copies with trusted parties, and periodically reviewing the document. Safe storage helps ensure the will is discoverable after death, and sharing information with the personal representative can speed administration. We also recommend periodic review when life events occur and offer assistance with amendments or replacements. Ongoing attention keeps the plan aligned with current wishes and provides confidence that directions remain valid and practical for your family.
Document Storage and Accessibility
Keeping the original will in a secure but accessible location helps ensure it can be located when needed. Options include a secure home location, a safe deposit box, or attorney custody. Notifying the personal representative and providing instructions on retrieval reduces delay in probate and helps beneficiaries receive timely notice. We advise on pros and cons of each storage method and steps to ensure access while protecting the document from loss or unauthorized changes.
Periodic Review and Amendments
Life changes such as births, deaths, marriage, divorce, or significant changes in assets often require updating your will. Regular reviews keep documents current and prevent unintended outcomes caused by outdated beneficiary designations or asset changes. When revisions are needed we discuss whether a codicil suffices or a full replacement will is more appropriate. Staying proactive about updates reduces confusion for your personal representative and beneficiaries and helps maintain the effectiveness of your overall estate plan.
Frequently Asked Questions about Wills in Henderson
What happens if I die without a will in Tennessee?
If you die without a valid will in Tennessee, state intestacy rules determine how your estate is distributed among surviving relatives, which may not match your personal wishes. Intestacy can result in assets passing to relatives in proportions set by statute, leaving out non-relatives or those you would have preferred to benefit. The lack of a will also means you do not name a personal representative, and the court will appoint someone to administer the estate according to statutory rules.Because intestacy can lead to outcomes that differ from your intentions and may increase the potential for disputes among family members, creating a will allows you to select beneficiaries, appoint a personal representative, and specify guardianship for minor children. A clear will helps ensure your preferences are followed and can simplify the administration process for those you leave behind.
How often should I update my will?
It is advisable to review your will after major life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or significant changes in asset ownership or value. These events often alter distribution priorities or create new needs that a previous will may not address. Regular review every few years also helps identify outdated beneficiary designations or changes in law that could affect your plan.Updating a will can involve minor amendments through a codicil or creating a new will when multiple revisions are necessary. Periodic reviews with legal counsel help ensure that your will and related documents remain consistent with current intentions and the practical realities of your estate.
Can I name guardians for my children in my will?
Yes, you can name guardians for minor children in your will, which is one of the most important functions of the document for parents. Naming a guardian expresses your preference for who should care for your children and manage their property if both parents pass away. It also allows you to name backups in case your primary choice is unwilling or unable to serve.Because guardianship is a weighty responsibility, it is helpful to discuss the role with the persons you plan to nominate and to consider their willingness and ability to assume care. Including clear instructions and providing for financial support through the estate can help ensure your children are cared for according to your wishes.
What can I do to avoid probate in Tennessee?
Avoiding probate often requires planning steps such as beneficiary designations on accounts, joint ownership arrangements that transfer by survivorship, and the use of certain types of trusts to hold assets outside probate. Proper titling of property and coordinating account designations can reduce the portion of an estate that becomes subject to probate administration. These strategies can streamline transfer and maintain privacy for the estate.It is important to review each approach to confirm it aligns with your overall estate plan and Tennessee law. Some probate avoidance techniques have tradeoffs, so discussing options and consequences helps determine the appropriate path for your individual circumstances and goals.
Who should I name as my personal representative?
Selecting a personal representative involves choosing someone organized, trustworthy, and willing to handle the duties of administering your estate. This person will gather assets, pay debts and taxes, and distribute property according to your will. Many people choose a close family member or friend, while others prefer a professional fiduciary depending on family dynamics and estate complexity.You should discuss the role with potential nominees to confirm they understand the responsibilities and are willing to serve. Naming alternate representatives provides a backup should the primary choice be unavailable. Clear communication and written instructions can make the administration process more efficient for the appointed representative.
Can I change my will after I sign it?
Yes, you can change your will after signing it as long as you are legally competent at the time of the change. Revisions can be made through a codicil for simple amendments or by creating a new will to replace the old one entirely. It is important to follow Tennessee’s legal formalities when executing changes so the new or amended document is valid and enforceable.When making changes, consider whether updates to beneficiary designations, titles, and related documents are also needed. Properly revoking or replacing old wills helps prevent confusion and reduces the risk of conflicting documents during probate.
How are debts and taxes handled under a will?
Under a will, valid debts and taxes of the decedent must be paid from the estate before distributions to beneficiaries. The personal representative inventories assets, notifies creditors as required by Tennessee law, and pays allowable claims from estate funds. The order and priority of payments follow statutory procedures and any applicable tax rules that may affect estate distribution and liquidity.Effective estate planning considers potential debts and tax obligations to ensure sufficient liquidity for administration and distribution. Strategies may include designating particular assets to cover payment needs, reviewing life insurance for estate liquidity, and coordinating documents to reduce surprises during administration.
Will my will cover jointly owned property and beneficiary accounts?
Jointly owned property and accounts with designated beneficiaries often pass outside the probate process according to ownership rules or contract terms. For example, assets that name a payable-on-death beneficiary or are owned jointly with rights of survivorship typically transfer directly to the surviving owner or beneficiary, bypassing the will’s probate distribution process. It is crucial to ensure these arrangements align with your overall estate plan to avoid unintended outcomes.A will governs only assets that are part of the probate estate. Reviewing account titles and beneficiary designations alongside your will helps coordinate transfers and ensures the combined effect of all documents reflects your intentions for asset distribution and administration.
What are common reasons wills are contested?
Wills may be contested for several reasons including claims of lack of capacity, allegations of undue influence, improper execution, or ambiguity in the document’s language. Family disputes and significant changes in asset distribution compared to prior versions can also prompt challenges. Contests increase time and expense in estate administration and can strain relationships among heirs.Careful drafting, clear explanations of intent, proper execution formalities, and periodic reviews help reduce the likelihood of successful contests. In some cases adding witness statements or maintaining records of the drafting process can provide additional evidence of the testator’s intentions and mental capacity when the will was created.
How do I start the process of creating a will with your firm?
To begin creating a will with Jay Johnson Law Firm, contact our office at 731-206-9700 to schedule an initial consultation. During that meeting we will discuss your family, assets, and goals and explain the documentation and information needed to draft a will that reflects your wishes. Bringing account statements, deeds, beneficiary forms, and a list of heirs and personal items helps streamline the process.After the initial meeting we prepare a draft for your review and make any necessary revisions before final execution. We also provide guidance on proper witnessing, storage options, and coordinating other estate planning documents to ensure the will functions as part of a comprehensive plan.