Comprehensive Guide to Ancillary Probate in Surgoinsville
Ancillary probate often arises when a deceased person’s property is located in a state other than the one where their primary estate is being administered. For Surgoinsville residents and families with ties to Hawkins County, understanding ancillary probate is important to ensure property is transferred properly and legal requirements are met. This page explains how ancillary probate works, who must be involved, and the types of assets commonly affected. If you own real estate, bank accounts, or other assets across state lines, this overview will help you recognize when ancillary probate may apply and what initial steps typically look like.
This guide is written to help Surgoinsville families navigate ancillary probate matters in Tennessee and neighboring states, clarifying common terms and outlining practical steps. We will describe the process from filing to closing, highlight common timelines and costs, and explain how documents like wills and death certificates are used in multi-state matters. While every situation is different, the information provided here aims to reduce uncertainty and help you prepare the paperwork and information that are typically required when ancillary probate is necessary for property located outside the decedent’s primary state of residence.
Why Ancillary Probate Matters for Out-of-State Property Owners
Ancillary probate protects the legal transfer of property located outside the state where the decedent’s main estate is probated. Without ancillary probate, real estate and certain accounts in another state may remain legally frozen or subject to local claims, leaving heirs unable to sell or transfer ownership. Completing ancillary probate establishes a local legal representative who can handle title transfers, clear liens, and work with local registries and banks. For families with property in Surgoinsville or Hawkins County, handling ancillary probate proactively prevents administrative delays and reduces the risk of disputes among beneficiaries about out-of-state assets.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Approach to Ancillary Probate
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves clients in Hendersonville, Surgoinsville, and across Tennessee, focusing on estate planning and probate matters that affect families and small estates. Our approach emphasizes careful documentation, clear communication, and timely filings with local courts and registries. We assist with gathering necessary records, preparing ancillary petitions, and coordinating with the primary probate administration. Clients benefit from a consistent process designed to reduce delays in transferring out-of-state property, while receiving practical guidance on costs, timelines, and required steps to complete ancillary proceedings efficiently.
Understanding Ancillary Probate: Key Concepts and When It Applies
Ancillary probate applies when a decedent’s estate has assets located in a state other than the one where their primary probate is underway. Typical assets include real estate, bank accounts, and certain personal property that are governed by the laws of the state in which the asset is located. The ancillary process usually requires filing documents with the local court where the asset sits, providing certified copies of the primary probate documents, and sometimes appointing a local representative to manage the property. Knowing whether ancillary probate is needed depends on how the assets are titled and whether beneficiaries can access them without court action.
The ancillary proceeding is designed to give the local court authority to transfer or clear title on assets that are physically located in that jurisdiction. It typically mirrors parts of the primary probate but is limited to administering the out-of-state assets. Requirements vary by state and may include filing fees, publication notices, and affidavits from the primary personal representative. For property in Surgoinsville and Hawkins County, understanding local rules and required documentation can shorten the process and reduce administrative costs, helping heirs obtain clear title or access funds when they are needed.
Defining Ancillary Probate and How It Differs from Primary Probate
Ancillary probate is a secondary legal process that complements the primary probate proceeding taking place in the decedent’s state of residence. While primary probate deals with the entire estate, ancillary probate focuses only on assets located in another state. It requires filing certified documents from the primary probate, such as letters testamentary or letters of administration, and often a local petition to recognize the authority of the appointed representative. Understanding these differences helps families identify the right steps to transfer property, complete title work, and close out local financial accounts that cannot be handled through the main probate alone.
Key Elements and Typical Steps in Ancillary Probate
Typical steps in ancillary probate include locating the out-of-state assets, obtaining certified copies of the primary probate documents, filing a petition in the local court, and providing notice to interested parties. The court may require additional proof of death, appraisals, or creditor notices depending on local rules. In many cases, a local representative or attorney will work with the clerk’s office to record deeds, obtain clearance on liens, and coordinate with financial institutions to release funds. Timelines can vary, but being prepared with accurate titles and documentation streamlines the process and avoids repeated filings or requests for supplemental information.
Key Terms and Glossary for Ancillary Probate
This glossary highlights common terms used in ancillary probate proceedings, offering concise definitions to help you navigate filings and court communications. Knowing these terms reduces confusion when reviewing petitions, court orders, and title documents. The glossary covers roles such as personal representative, documents like letters testamentary, and actions like filing a petition for ancillary administration. For Surgoinsville property and assets in Hawkins County, familiarizing yourself with these terms will help when coordinating between the primary probate location and the local clerk or register of deeds where the ancillary matter is filed.
Letters Testamentary or Letters of Administration
Letters testamentary or letters of administration are official documents issued by the court in the primary probate proceeding that authorize a named person to act on behalf of the estate. In ancillary probate, certified copies of these letters are typically filed with the local court to recognize the representative’s authority over out-of-state assets. These documents are central to the ancillary process because they provide the legal basis for transferring title, closing accounts, and signing documents on behalf of the estate in another jurisdiction where the property is located.
Local Petition for Ancillary Administration
A local petition for ancillary administration is the document filed in the state where the asset is located, requesting that court’s permission to administer the specific out-of-state property. The petition usually attaches certified documents from the primary probate, a death certificate, and information about the asset’s value. Filing this petition triggers the local court’s involvement and may require notice to heirs and creditors in that jurisdiction. Once granted, the local court can issue orders that enable the transfer or disposition of the affected property.
Asset Title and Jurisdiction
Asset title and jurisdiction refer to the legal authority that controls ownership of a particular piece of property, usually determined by the property’s physical location or how it is titled. Real estate is typically governed by the laws of the state where the property is located, which is why ancillary probate is often needed for out-of-state land. Bank accounts and some investments may also be subject to local rules depending on account terms and state law. Clear title documentation helps avoid delays in the ancillary process and ensures proper transfer to beneficiaries or sale proceeds distribution.
Affidavit, Death Certificate, and Certified Documents
Affidavits, the death certificate, and certified copies of probate documents are commonly required by the local court and by financial institutions during ancillary probate. These items verify the decedent’s death, establish the authority of the primary personal representative, and provide the court with documented proof necessary to act on the estate’s behalf. Ensuring these documents are properly certified and available early in the process can reduce back-and-forth with the court and speed up property transfers or account access in the ancillary jurisdiction.
Comparing Options: Limited Filing Versus Full Ancillary Administration
When dealing with out-of-state property, families may choose between filing a limited ancillary petition or a fuller ancillary administration depending on the asset type and value. A limited filing may suffice for straightforward matters like transferring a single piece of real estate with clear title and few creditors, while a full ancillary administration can be necessary when there are multiple assets, disputes, or complex title issues. Evaluating the complexity, potential creditor claims, and the local court’s requirements helps determine the most efficient route and avoids unnecessary filings or repeated court appearances.
When a Limited Ancillary Filing May Be Appropriate:
Simple Property Transfers with Clear Title
A limited ancillary filing is often suitable when the out-of-state asset is a single item with clear title and no competing claims or unresolved creditor issues. Examples include a home with no outstanding liens or a bank account that requires only verification of the personal representative’s authority. In these cases, the court’s involvement is procedural, intended mainly to confirm the representative can transfer title or access funds. Choosing this approach typically reduces paperwork and court fees, and can shorten the time before heirs receive proceeds or ownership changes are recorded.
Low-Value Assets or Administrative Matters Only
When the out-of-state assets are low in value and there are no creditor contests or disputes among beneficiaries, a limited ancillary proceeding may be the most practical choice. This path addresses administrative matters like recording a deed or closing a small bank account without initiating a full-scale probate in the ancillary jurisdiction. Because it focuses only on the necessary actions to clear or transfer the specific asset, this approach can limit court appearances and reduce overall administration costs, depending on the local court’s procedures and filing fees.
When Full Ancillary Administration Is Recommended:
Multiple Assets or Complex Title Issues
Full ancillary administration is often recommended when there are multiple out-of-state assets, unresolved liens, or competing claims that require the local court’s broader authority. This pathway may involve appointing a local administrator, publishing notices to creditors, and accounting for the assets subject to the ancillary court’s jurisdiction. When several properties or accounts are involved, a comprehensive approach ensures all local legal requirements are met, titles are cleared, and distribution can proceed lawfully under the local rules, reducing the risk of later challenges to transfers or sales.
Disputes Among Heirs or Creditor Claims
A full ancillary proceeding may be necessary when heirs dispute ownership, when creditors have filed claims against local assets, or when the asset titles are unclear. In these situations, the ancillary court’s broader jurisdiction allows for hearings, affidavits, and orders that resolve conflicts and establish clear authority for distribution. Engaging this process can protect the estate from future claims and provide a legally enforceable path to resolve competing interests, rather than relying solely on informal agreements or administrative transfers that could be challenged later.
Benefits of Taking a Comprehensive Approach to Ancillary Matters
A comprehensive ancillary approach helps ensure all legal bases are covered for assets located in Surgoinsville or elsewhere, reducing the risk of title defects and potential creditor challenges. By addressing liens, required notices, and local filing requirements in a single coordinated process, families can avoid repeated court actions and unexpected delays. This approach also creates a clear record that supports final distribution and potential sale transactions, allowing heirs and local institutions to rely on court orders when transferring property or releasing funds.
Coordinating a comprehensive ancillary administration can also protect beneficiaries from future disputes by producing binding court orders that clarify ownership, lien priorities, and distribution instructions. For estates with significant out-of-state holdings or complicated title histories, the additional administrative steps provide predictability and legal certainty. While this route may involve more paperwork and hearings, the outcome often simplifies later transactions, such as selling real estate or transferring deeds, because potential issues are resolved under the ancillary court’s supervision before assets change hands.
Legal Certainty for Title Transfers
Completing a thorough ancillary administration provides court-ordered confirmation of title transfers and authority to act on estate property, which is especially helpful when local registries or purchasers require formal documentation. This certainty reduces the likelihood of later challenges and makes transactions smoother for those buying or inheriting property. In Surgoinsville and Hawkins County, clear orders from the local court help ensure deeds are recorded properly, liens are identified and addressed, and buyers or institutions can proceed with confidence, avoiding rework or legal disputes that slow down closings.
Efficient Resolution of Competing Claims
A comprehensive ancillary process allows the court to manage and resolve competing claims from creditors or heirs within the jurisdiction of the out-of-state asset. This reduces uncertainty for beneficiaries who might otherwise face protracted disputes after assets are transferred. By handling notice requirements, hearings, and formal dispute resolution as part of the ancillary proceeding, the court can issue definitive rulings that clarify entitlement, enabling distributions and sales to move forward with greater predictability and fewer post-distribution challenges.
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Practical Tips for Managing Ancillary Probate
Gather Certified Primary Probate Documents
One of the most helpful steps is to obtain certified copies of the primary probate documents before filing anything in the ancillary jurisdiction. Certified documents typically include letters testamentary or letters of administration and a certified copy of the court order appointing the personal representative. Having these in hand reduces the chance of delays when filing the ancillary petition. It also helps local courts and institutions verify authority quickly, which can streamline title transfers and account closures without repeated requests for additional documentation.
Check Local Filing Requirements Early
Keep a Clear Record of Titles and Liens
Before filing for ancillary administration, gather deed records, mortgage statements, and any lien or tax documentation related to the out-of-state property. A clear picture of title issues helps determine whether a limited filing is sufficient or if a full ancillary administration is necessary. Documenting these items early also supports a smoother transfer or sale process, enabling the local court to address liens and record clear title once the appropriate orders are issued, reducing the likelihood of post-transfer disputes or additional corrective filings.
Why You Should Consider Ancillary Probate for Out-of-State Assets
If you or a loved one owned property in a state other than the one where the primary estate is being administered, ancillary probate may be necessary to transfer ownership or access funds tied to those assets. Reasons to consider this service include needing clear title for a sale, resolving liens or creditor claims attached to local property, and ensuring that the local court recognizes the authority of the primary personal representative. Acting proactively can reduce delays and legal risks when transferring property owned across state lines.
Another reason to pursue ancillary probate is to provide legal certainty for financial institutions and registries that may require local court orders before releasing funds or recording deeds. For heirs and beneficiaries who need timely access to proceeds from property sales or account distributions, ancillary proceedings create formal authority recognized by local entities. Considering ancillary probate early in the administration process helps coordinate documents and timelines between jurisdictions and avoids the need for emergency filings or rushed actions later.
Common Situations That Lead to Ancillary Probate
Common circumstances that trigger ancillary probate include ownership of real estate in a different state, bank accounts or investment accounts governed by the laws of another jurisdiction, and personal property requiring local court orders for transfer. Life events such as a move, seasonal ownership, or inherited property can result in assets being located across state lines. Recognizing these situations early allows families to gather documents and determine whether a limited filing or a fuller ancillary administration is the appropriate step for efficient resolution.
Out-of-State Real Estate Ownership
Real estate located in a different state than the decedent’s primary residence is the most frequent reason for ancillary probate. Housing market rules, deed recordings, and local lien requirements mean the local court must often be involved to transfer title. When a property is in Surgoinsville or Hawkins County but the main probate is elsewhere, filing for ancillary administration ensures the deed can be transferred or the property sold in accordance with local legal processes and the wishes of the estate’s beneficiaries.
Financial Accounts Tied to Local Jurisdiction
Bank accounts, safe deposit boxes, and certain investment accounts that are governed by another state’s laws may require local court recognition of the personal representative’s authority. Financial institutions often insist on a local court order or certified documents before releasing funds or closing accounts. Addressing these requirements through ancillary filings prevents funds from remaining inaccessible and provides a documented basis for distributing proceeds to heirs in accordance with the probate outcome.
Property Held With Local Liens or Claims
When property in another state has outstanding liens, unpaid taxes, or competing claims, ancillary probate allows the local court to address and resolve those matters as part of the administration. This may include filing creditor notices, arranging lien payoffs from estate funds, or obtaining court orders that settle competing interests. Handling such issues through the ancillary court helps clear titles and ensures that final distributions or sales proceed without unresolved encumbrances that could later disrupt ownership transfers.
Surgoinsville Ancillary Probate Services
At Jay Johnson Law Firm, we assist families in Surgoinsville and Hawkins County with the ancillary probate process for out-of-state assets. Our services include preparing and filing local petitions, coordinating certified documents from the primary probate, communicating with county clerks and registries, and assisting with title transfers and account closures. We focus on practical solutions that minimize delay and cost while ensuring compliance with local court requirements. If you have property outside the primary probate state, we can guide you through the ancillary steps and required documentation.
Why Choose Jay Johnson Law Firm for Ancillary Probate Matters
Jay Johnson Law Firm has experience handling estate administration matters across Tennessee and in situations involving out-of-state property. We prioritize timely communication, accurate filings, and coordination between jurisdictions so heirs can access assets and clear titles. Our process includes an initial review of the property and documentation, guidance on required certified records, and a clear outline of likely timelines and costs for the ancillary proceeding. Clients receive step-by-step support during each phase of the local filing and transfer process.
We work with local courts, registries, and financial institutions in Hawkins County to ensure filings meet procedural requirements and that records are recorded promptly. By managing notice requirements and court submissions, we help reduce the administrative burden on family members and avoid repeated trips to local offices. This coordination can save time and costs associated with correcting incomplete filings or addressing unforeseen local requirements that only surface during the process.
In situations involving multiple jurisdictions or complicated title histories, our approach emphasizes organization and transparency so heirs understand what to expect and when. We prepare the necessary paperwork, monitor filing status, and liaise with the primary probate representative to synchronize actions between courts. For clients in Surgoinsville, this hands-on coordination helps close ancillary matters efficiently and supports a smoother final distribution or property sale under local rules.
Contact Jay Johnson Law Firm for Ancillary Probate Assistance in Surgoinsville
Ancillary Probate Process at Our Firm
Our ancillary probate process begins with an intake to identify the location and nature of out-of-state assets, followed by requests for certified probate documents and a death certificate. We prepare the necessary local petition and supporting exhibits, file with the appropriate court in the jurisdiction where the asset is located, and handle required notices and follow-up. We also coordinate with registries and financial institutions to obtain clearances and record transfers. Throughout the process, we provide regular updates so families know what to expect and when matters will likely conclude.
Step One: Case Review and Document Gathering
The first step focuses on assembling the necessary documentation and confirming the asset details. We review the primary probate documents to ensure certified copies are available, obtain a certified death certificate, and gather deeds, account statements, or other title records related to the out-of-state property. This preparatory phase reduces the chance of supplemental filings and helps determine whether a limited or full ancillary proceeding is required. Having complete documents at the outset speeds the initial filing and increases the likelihood of a smooth ancillary process.
Collect Primary Probate Documents
Collecting certified copies of letters testamentary or letters of administration and the court order from the primary probate is essential for the ancillary filing. These documents establish the authority of the personal representative and are typically required by the local court where the asset is located. Early collection prevents delays caused by waiting for certifications or additional court signatures and allows the ancillary petition to be submitted promptly on behalf of the estate.
Confirm Asset Title and Value
Confirming the property’s title status and fair market value helps determine the appropriate ancillary route. We review deeds, mortgage records, and tax statements to identify liens or other encumbrances. Understanding these details guides whether a limited filing suffices or a fuller ancillary administration is needed. Clear documentation of title issues also supports negotiations for lien payoffs and informs the court of any matters that must be resolved before distribution or sale.
Step Two: Filing and Local Court Proceedings
Once documents are gathered and reviewed, we prepare the ancillary petition and supporting materials to file with the local court. This step may include submitting certified probate documents, a death certificate, and any required affidavits or notice information. Depending on the jurisdiction, the court may require publication, creditor notice, or additional filings. We track the case through the court process, respond to inquiries, and represent the estate’s interests in hearings or clerk interactions until the court issues the orders needed for transfers or distributions.
Local Petition Preparation
Preparing the local petition involves drafting the required petition form and attaching certified documents from the primary probate, a death certificate, and a description of the asset. We ensure the petition satisfies local statutory requirements and that notices are addressed to appropriate parties. Proper preparation at this stage minimizes the chance of rejection or additional court requests and helps move the ancillary matter toward a final local order authorizing the requested actions.
Court Filings and Notices
After filing the petition, many courts require publication or direct notices to heirs and creditors. We prepare and send these notices as required, monitor response periods, and address any creditor claims or objections. Compliance with notice rules is essential for the court to grant final orders, and careful handling of this stage prevents delays and helps ensure that the ancillary matter proceeds smoothly to conclusion once the response window has closed and the court has reviewed the filings.
Step Three: Completing Transfers and Closing the Ancillary Matter
When the court issues the appropriate ancillary orders, the final stage focuses on executing transfers, recording deeds, and closing accounts as authorized. This includes paying any required costs or lien resolutions and preparing documentation for registries and financial institutions. We assist with recording deeds or obtaining releases, distributing proceeds according to the estate plan or court orders, and filing final reports with the court as required to close the ancillary matter. The goal is to complete local actions so beneficiaries receive clear title or funds without lingering encumbrances.
Transfer and Recording Actions
After receiving court authority, we prepare and record deeds, releases, or other instruments needed to transfer title in the ancillary jurisdiction. This may include coordinating with the register of deeds, paying transfer taxes or fees, and ensuring releases of liens are documented. Proper recording is the final administrative step that ensures the local public record reflects the new ownership or lien status, enabling heirs or buyers to rely on clear title when completing sales or transfers.
Final Accounting and Case Closure
The final accounting and closure steps involve preparing any required reports for the court, distributing proceeds to beneficiaries as authorized, and filing documents that conclude the ancillary administration. This ensures the local court has a complete record and that the estate’s obligations in that jurisdiction are satisfied. Proper documentation also helps protect beneficiaries by demonstrating that distributions and transfers were made under court authority, reducing the likelihood of future claims challenging the ancillary proceedings.
Ancillary Probate Frequently Asked Questions
What is ancillary probate and when is it required?
Ancillary probate is the local legal process used to administer assets that are located in a state other than where the decedent’s main probate is underway. It is required when local institutions or registries need a court order recognizing the authority of the primary personal representative before transferring title or releasing funds. This often applies to real estate, certain bank accounts, and other tangible property that must follow the laws of the state where the asset resides.Whether ancillary probate is needed depends on how the asset is titled and the local rules. Some assets pass outside probate through joint ownership or beneficiary designations, while others require a local filing to clear title or access funds. Reviewing asset documentation helps determine if ancillary action is necessary.
How long does ancillary probate typically take in Hawkins County?
The duration of ancillary probate in Hawkins County varies based on the complexity of the asset, court schedules, and whether notice or creditor response periods apply. Simple limited filings can conclude in a few weeks to a few months, while full ancillary administrations involving notices, lien resolution, or disputes may take several months. Local filing timelines and processing speed at the clerk’s office influence the overall schedule.Preparation and having all required certified documents ready can shorten processing time. Early coordination of filings, notices, and any necessary responses helps avoid repeated submissions and accelerates the court’s ability to issue orders for transfer or distribution.
What documents are required to start ancillary probate?
Required documents typically include certified copies of the primary probate letters testamentary or letters of administration, a certified death certificate, and documents evidencing the asset’s title such as deeds, account statements, or lien records. The local court may also require an affidavit, identification of heirs, and a petition describing the property and asking for ancillary authority.Having these documents certified and organized before filing reduces the likelihood of delays. Additional items such as appraisals, publication affidavits, or creditor notices may also be required depending on local rules and the specific nature of the asset involved.
Can a limited ancillary filing avoid full probate in another state?
A limited ancillary filing may be sufficient when the out-of-state asset is straightforward to transfer and there are no competing claims or unresolved liens. This approach focuses on the single asset that needs local court recognition and avoids opening a full ancillary estate. It is often used for simple title transfers or account closures where the required documentation is complete and the transaction is uncontested.However, if there are multiple assets, creditor issues, or disputes among heirs, a full ancillary administration may be necessary. Evaluating the asset’s complexity and any potential claims determines whether the limited route is appropriate.
Will ancillary probate increase the cost of administering an estate?
Ancillary probate can add costs to estate administration because it involves additional court filing fees, possible publication or notice costs, and local recording fees. The extent of added expense depends on whether a limited filing suffices or if a full ancillary administration is required. Simple ancillary filings generally result in modest costs, while complex cases with liens or disputes may incur higher expenses.Careful planning and gathering of required documents before filing can reduce ancillary costs by preventing repeated submissions and minimizing court follow-ups. Discussing probable fees with your attorney or the court clerk can help set expectations for overall administration expenses.
How are liens and creditors handled in ancillary proceedings?
Liens and creditor claims against out-of-state property are addressed through the ancillary court in the jurisdiction where the asset is located. The court may require notice to creditors, publication requirements, or formal claim filings. Resolving liens may involve paying them from estate funds or negotiating releases before the asset can be transferred or sold.Handling these matters through ancillary proceedings offers a formal path to resolve claims and ensure that title is clear for distribution or sale. Proper notice and documentation are key to protecting the estate and beneficiaries from future challenges related to unresolved claims.
Can beneficiaries sell out-of-state property before ancillary probate is complete?
Generally, selling out-of-state property before completing ancillary probate can be difficult because buyers and title companies often require clear court authority to change ownership. Without local court orders or recorded transfers, banks and title companies may refuse to close a sale. Therefore, completing the necessary ancillary steps or obtaining a court order is typically required for a sale to proceed smoothly.In limited circumstances and with appropriate paperwork, some transactions can move forward if all parties agree and institutions accept the documentation. However, most sales benefit from the formal ancillary process to ensure clear title and reduce the risk of post-closing disputes.
Does the primary probate court handle ancillary assets for me?
The primary probate court issues the documents that establish the authority of the personal representative, but it does not automatically control assets located in another state. Ancillary probate is the mechanism by which a local court recognizes that authority for specific out-of-state assets. The primary probate provides certified copies of orders and letters that are filed with the ancillary court to establish authority locally.Coordination between the primary and ancillary proceedings is important. Submitting complete certified documentation from the primary probate to the ancillary court helps avoid delays and ensures that the local court can act on the estate’s behalf regarding those assets.
What happens if there is no will for the property located out of state?
If there is no will, ancillary probate still may be required for assets located in another state, but the process will follow intestacy rules under the jurisdiction where the asset is located. The primary probate court will issue letters of administration, which the ancillary court can then accept to authorize local action. Intestacy rules determine the distribution among heirs and may differ between states, which can affect how assets are apportioned.Because intestate distribution can be more complex across jurisdictions, coordinating documentation and understanding local succession laws is important to ensure assets are transferred correctly to the rightful heirs in the ancillary jurisdiction.
How can I start the ancillary probate process with Jay Johnson Law Firm?
To start ancillary probate with Jay Johnson Law Firm, contact our office to schedule an initial consultation to review the asset, gather primary probate documents, and confirm required certified records. We will outline the likely steps, filing requirements, and estimate timelines and fees for the ancillary process. This intake allows us to prepare the petition and supporting documentation efficiently for filing in the local court.You can reach Jay Johnson Law Firm at 731-206-9700 to arrange an appointment or to discuss the documents you already have. Early contact helps us begin document collection and coordinate filings between jurisdictions to expedite the ancillary proceeding.