Comprehensive Guide to Wills and Estate Planning in Etowah
Planning a will is an important step for individuals and families in Etowah who want to control how their property is handled after death. At Jay Johnson Law Firm we focus on clear, practical will drafting that reflects your wishes and reduces uncertainty for those you leave behind. A well-prepared will addresses distribution of assets, guardianship for minor children, and appointment of a personal representative, helping to streamline later administration. This introduction outlines what to expect during the process and how local Tennessee rules can affect the outcome of a will created for Etowah residents.
A properly prepared will is more than a list of beneficiaries; it is a plan that helps avoid confusion and potential disputes. In Tennessee, formal requirements such as witnessing and signature must be met for a will to be valid, and the probate process can vary based on estate size and complexity. Jay Johnson Law Firm assists clients in Etowah with understanding these rules, organizing assets, and documenting wishes in a way that aims to reduce delays and simplify administration for family members after a death. Early planning also allows time to update documents as circumstances change.
Why a Properly Drafted Will Benefits You and Your Family
Creating a will provides clear instruction about how to distribute your assets, who will manage your estate, and who will care for minor children, which can prevent family disagreements and reduce stress during an already difficult time. In Etowah, having a will helps ensure local probate procedures move forward based on your written wishes rather than default statutory rules. A will also allows you to designate a personal representative to handle estate administration and to state any funeral preferences. Planning ahead can minimize administrative burden and help preserve assets for intended beneficiaries.
About Jay Johnson Law Firm and Our Approach to Wills
Jay Johnson Law Firm serves clients across Tennessee, including Etowah and surrounding communities, with a focus on estate planning and probate matters. Our approach centers on listening to each client’s priorities, explaining Tennessee-specific legal requirements, and preparing clear, enforceable documents. We guide clients through asset inventories, beneficiary designations, and the selection of a personal representative in a manner that reflects individual values and family dynamics. The firm emphasizes practical, client-focused solutions designed to make the will creation and later administration as straightforward as possible for loved ones.
Understanding Wills and How They Work in Tennessee
A will is a legal instrument that communicates your instructions about property distribution and estate administration after death. In Tennessee, formalities such as witnessing and signature requirements determine validity, and certain types of property or arrangements may pass outside of a will through beneficiary designations or joint ownership. Understanding which assets are controlled by a will versus by other mechanisms is essential when planning. Our team helps Etowah clients identify what should be included in the will, how to coordinate beneficiary designations, and how the document interacts with powers of attorney and advance directives.
Knowing the limits and strengths of a will reduces surprises during probate. A will becomes effective only at death and does not avoid all probate; however, it sets forth your wishes for distribution and guardianship, and it can simplify the court process when prepared correctly. Issues such as contested wills, complexities in blended families, or substantial asset portfolios require careful drafting to reflect intentions while minimizing potential disputes. We walk Etowah residents through likely scenarios and recommend practical steps to keep estate administration clear and efficient for beneficiaries.
Defining a Will and Related Documents
A will is a formal written document that specifies who will receive your assets, who will serve as personal representative, and, if applicable, who will act as guardian for minor children. It is distinct from documents like durable powers of attorney or advance health directives, which operate during life. Wills must meet Tennessee legal formalities to be effective, including proper witnessing. Certain arrangements such as joint tenancy or transfer-on-death designations can bypass a will, so coordinated planning is important. We help clients understand how these documents fit together to form a comprehensive estate plan.
Key Elements of a Will and the Probate Process
Important components of a will include the identification of the testator, clear beneficiary designations, appointment of a personal representative, guardianship nominations for minors, and any specific property bequests. Once a will is submitted to probate in Tennessee, the court oversees the validation of the will, notification of creditors and beneficiaries, and distribution of assets according to the document and applicable law. Proper organization of financial records and beneficiary information before death speeds up probate and reduces confusion. Our practice assists clients in preparing wills that reflect intentions and support efficient administration.
Key Terms and Glossary for Wills and Probate
Understanding common terms used in wills and probate helps demystify the legal process. Key concepts include testator, beneficiary, personal representative, probate, intestacy, and fiduciary duties. Familiarity with these terms enables better decision making when drafting documents or administering an estate. Our materials for Etowah clients explain each term in plain language, illustrate how they apply in typical scenarios, and offer guidance on questions to consider when naming individuals to roles like personal representative or guardian, ensuring choices align with your goals and family circumstances.
Testator
The testator is the person who creates and signs a will to express their wishes regarding property distribution at death. A valid will requires the testator to have legal capacity at the time of signing and to follow Tennessee’s formalities for execution. The concept of capacity includes understanding property, identifying beneficiaries, and appreciating the effect of the document. Recognizing the role and responsibilities of the testator helps in creating clear, enforceable documents that reflect intentions and reduce uncertainty for heirs and the probate court.
Personal Representative
A personal representative is the individual appointed to manage the estate during probate, including gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, and distributing property according to the will or state law. The duties require organization, timely actions, and communication with beneficiaries and the court. Choosing someone reliable and willing to serve can prevent delays and reduce conflict. We advise clients on the practical considerations in selecting a personal representative, such as geographic availability, financial acumen, and willingness to carry out fiduciary responsibilities.
Beneficiary
A beneficiary is a person or entity designated to receive property or benefits from a will or other estate planning instrument. Beneficiaries can include family members, friends, charities, or organizations. Clear identification of beneficiaries, including full names and relationship details, helps prevent ambiguity that could lead to contested distributions. Clients should review beneficiary designations across accounts and policies to ensure they align with the will and overall estate plan, and update them after major life events to reflect current wishes.
Intestacy
Intestacy occurs when someone dies without a valid will, leaving the distribution of their property to Tennessee’s statutory rules. Under intestacy, assets pass according to a statutory hierarchy that may not match the decedent’s intended beneficiaries, potentially excluding chosen friends or organizations. Avoiding intestacy by preparing a will allows individuals to ensure assets go to preferred recipients and to name guardians for minor children. Planning prevents unintended outcomes and gives families clearer guidance during probate administration.
Comparing Legal Options for Estate Planning
When arranging estate documents, individuals choose among options such as a simple will, a trust-based plan, or informal beneficiary designations. Each approach has advantages depending on the size and nature of assets, privacy concerns, and the desire to avoid probate. A will is appropriate for many households in Etowah, while trusts may provide additional control over distribution and potential probate avoidance for certain assets. Reviewing your financial structure, family dynamics, and long-term goals helps determine the most appropriate documents to include in a cohesive plan.
When a Simple Will May Meet Your Needs:
Small Estate with Clear Beneficiaries
A straightforward will is often sufficient when an estate is modest and beneficiaries are obvious, such as leaving property to a spouse or adult children. In such cases, the will documents distribution preferences and can appoint a personal representative without adding unnecessary complexity. Simple estates without special tax considerations, business interests, or extensive out-of-state property commonly benefit from a limited approach that focuses on clarity and ease of administration. This helps avoid unnecessary legal arrangements and keeps costs reasonable while still directing how assets should pass.
Minimal Need for Probate Avoidance
When most assets already pass outside probate via beneficiary designations or joint ownership, a basic will can provide backup instructions and nominate a guardian for minor children without attempting complex probate avoidance strategies. This approach keeps planning manageable for Etowah residents who prefer straightforward documentation. It ensures that any assets needing court administration are handled according to the testator’s wishes while avoiding the added expense and administration involved with trust structures when those features are not necessary for the family’s goals.
Why a Broader Estate Plan May Be Appropriate:
Complex Asset Structures and Tax Concerns
A comprehensive estate plan is often needed when assets include business interests, multiple properties in different states, retirement accounts, or significant investments that may be subject to complex probate or tax considerations. In such situations, coordination among wills, trusts, beneficiary designations, and tax planning helps preserve value and clarify administration. A more detailed plan can address creditor exposure, provide for long-term management of assets, and offer tailored strategies to achieve specific family and financial goals without leaving important decisions unresolved.
Protecting Vulnerable Beneficiaries and Ensuring Continuity
When beneficiaries include minors, individuals with disabilities, or family members who may require ongoing support, a comprehensive plan can create structures that provide for care and management of assets over time. Trust arrangements, successor fiduciary designations, and detailed instructions can ensure resources are used as intended while protecting beneficiaries from financial mismanagement. Planning ahead also supports business succession and avoids sudden leadership gaps by naming successors and establishing procedures to manage assets and operations after death or incapacity.
Benefits of a Thoughtful, Comprehensive Will and Estate Plan
A comprehensive estate plan provides peace of mind by aligning legal documents with personal goals, reducing ambiguity, and creating a roadmap for orderly administration of assets. It can reduce the risk of disputes among heirs, ensure continuity for businesses, and provide mechanisms for the long-term care of dependents. By considering both probate and non-probate transfers, a comprehensive approach helps coordinate retirement accounts, life insurance, and property titles to achieve smoother transitions and preserve value for intended beneficiaries.
Taking a broad view allows clients to address potential contingencies, such as incapacity or disputes, through durable powers of attorney, advance medical directives, and well-drafted testamentary documents. This planning reduces the administrative burden for loved ones and can shorten the time needed to resolve estate matters. For Etowah residents, aligning documents with Tennessee law ensures that wishes are carried out efficiently and that beneficiaries receive clear instructions to follow during probate or other settlement processes.
Clarity and Reduced Risk of Disputes
Clear, coordinated documents limit ambiguity about distribution, fiduciary roles, and guardianship choices, which reduces the likelihood of contested matters in probate. By naming successors and outlining responsibilities, a comprehensive plan helps family members understand the testator’s intent and follow a defined process. This clarity is particularly valuable in blended families or where assets are divided among a range of beneficiaries with differing needs. Thoughtful documentation can lower emotional strain and legal costs by minimizing uncertainty and streamlining administration.
Continuity for Family and Business Affairs
A complete estate plan supports continuity by addressing business succession, appointing fiduciaries, and creating mechanisms to manage assets during transitions. Naming trusted individuals for financial and healthcare decisions and establishing trusts where appropriate helps ensure that daily needs and long-term plans continue without unnecessary interruption. For business owners and families in Etowah, this continuity preserves value, provides structure for management decisions, and reduces the administrative disruptions that can follow a death or incapacity.
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Practical Tips for Preparing Your Will
Gather Complete Financial Information
Before meeting to draft a will, collect a comprehensive list of assets, account statements, deeds, insurance policies, and any retirement or investment accounts. Include details such as account numbers, beneficiary designations, and property deeds to ensure nothing is overlooked. Having detailed records helps your attorney draft accurate provisions and coordinate the will with other transfer mechanisms. This preparation saves time during the drafting process and reduces the likelihood of omissions that could complicate probate or lead to unintended distributions under Tennessee law.
Consider Who Should Serve in Fiduciary Roles
Review and Update Your Will Regularly
Life events such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, changes in financial circumstances, or relocation can affect how your will should be structured. Schedule periodic reviews of your will and related documents to confirm they still reflect your intentions and remain aligned with beneficiary designations on accounts. Updating documents as circumstances change ensures that your estate plan remains current and prevents unintended outcomes. Regular reviews also allow reconciliation of the will with newer planning tools or changes in Tennessee law that may affect administration.
Reasons to Prepare a Will in Etowah
Preparing a will provides control over the distribution of your assets, helps designate guardians for minor children, and appoints someone to manage estate administration. These provisions reduce uncertainty and give clear direction to family members during an emotionally difficult time. Without a will, Tennessee’s intestacy rules determine asset distribution, which may not match your wishes. A will also allows you to address personal matters such as funeral preferences and specific bequests to friends or charities, providing peace of mind that your intentions are documented and legally recognized.
A will can also simplify probate administration by naming a personal representative who is empowered to carry out estate tasks, communicate with beneficiaries, and settle debts. For individuals with blended families, multiple properties, or complex financial arrangements, a well-considered will reduces ambiguity and helps prevent disputes among heirs. Taking action now allows you to tailor a plan that reflects your values and family needs, while also making the eventual probate process more straightforward for those left to manage your affairs.
Common Situations When a Will Is Needed
Many circumstances prompt the need for a will, including having minor children, blended family dynamics, significant personal property or real estate, business ownership, or charitable intentions. Major life changes such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child often necessitate updates to estate documents. Even when assets are modest, a will provides clarity for distribution and reduces the risk of intestacy. Clients in Etowah frequently seek assistance to ensure that their wishes for guardianship and property distribution are clearly documented and legally effective under Tennessee law.
Young Families with Minor Children
Young families with minor children benefit from a will that nominates guardians and outlines how assets should be used for their care and support. Without a nominated guardian, the court determines who will care for children, which may not reflect parental preferences. A will also allows parents to name a trustee or set aside funds for management until children reach an age deemed appropriate. Documenting these preferences gives families confidence that children will be cared for according to parental wishes and reduces uncertainty during a difficult time.
Individuals with Property Across Multiple States
When property is located in multiple states, probate processes can become more complex and potentially require ancillary probate proceedings in other jurisdictions. A comprehensive will and associated planning can address how out-of-state real property is handled and coordinate with other estate planning tools to reduce duplicative proceedings. Clear documentation of ownership and intended distribution helps local representatives and courts manage assets efficiently, saving time and expense for beneficiaries and simplifying administration for those managing the estate from Etowah.
Owners of Small Businesses or Family Enterprises
Business owners should plan for continuity by documenting succession plans, transferring interests appropriately, and naming trusted individuals to manage business affairs if needed. A will can be one part of a broader business succession strategy that also includes buy-sell agreements and asset titling changes to minimize disruption. Clear instructions reduce the risk of operational interruptions and disputes among family members or business partners. Planning ahead supports a smoother transition and helps preserve the business value for employees and heirs.
Wills and Estate Planning Services for Etowah Residents
Jay Johnson Law Firm provides wills and estate planning services to residents of Etowah and McMinn County, offering guidance on drafting documents that align with Tennessee law and personal goals. Our practice assists with will preparation, appointment of personal representatives, guardianship nominations, and coordination with beneficiary designations. We help clients collect necessary information, explain filing and witnessing formalities, and prepare documents intended to simplify later administration. Clients receive practical advice tailored to local probate practice and family needs.
Why Choose Jay Johnson Law Firm for Your Will
Choosing a law firm to prepare your will means working with attorneys who understand Tennessee probate rules and local practices in McMinn County. Jay Johnson Law Firm assists clients in organizing assets, drafting clear provisions, and naming accountable fiduciaries, all aimed at making estate administration more straightforward for heirs. The firm focuses on practical planning, informed communication, and documents drafted to reflect both legal requirements and the client’s priorities in a way that is easy for loved ones to follow.
Our process begins with a thorough information-gathering conversation to identify assets, family relationships, and any special concerns such as blended families or care for dependents. We explain how different approaches will affect administration and recommend strategies to avoid unnecessary complication. Clients appreciate a collaborative approach that balances legal considerations with personal values, helping ensure that wills and associated documents are clear, enforceable, and aligned with their wishes under Tennessee law.
We assist with follow-through tasks such as coordinating beneficiary designations, advising on property ownership structures, and preparing instructions that help personal representatives administer estates efficiently. Our goal is to reduce stress for families by creating organized, accessible documents and guiding clients through decisions that impact loved ones. We also encourage regular reviews to keep wills current as circumstances change, so that the plan remains consistent with ongoing needs and family dynamics.
Ready to Discuss Your Will? Contact Our Etowah Team
How We Handle Will Preparation and Probate
Our process for will preparation begins with a detailed consultation to understand family relationships, asset ownership, and personal wishes. We gather financial information, review beneficiary designations, and identify any unique concerns such as guardianship or business succession. After drafting documents tailored to Tennessee requirements, we review them with clients, make revisions as needed, and complete execution formalities such as witnessing. If probate becomes necessary, we represent the personal representative through filing, administration, creditor notifications, and distribution to beneficiaries with an emphasis on clear communication throughout the process.
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Information Gathering
The initial meeting focuses on learning about your assets, family, and objectives to tailor a will that aligns with your intentions. We request documentation such as account statements, deeds, life insurance policies, and retirement account details to ensure a complete picture. During this conversation we discuss how different provisions operate in Tennessee, potential implications for probate, and the roles of named fiduciaries. This foundation ensures the documents we prepare accurately reflect your wishes and reduce the risk of oversight during later administration.
Collecting Financial and Personal Information
Collecting comprehensive financial records and information about your family relationships and personal wishes allows us to draft concise, effective provisions. We guide clients on what records to assemble and ask targeted questions about intended beneficiaries, special gifts, guardianship preferences, and any concerns about potential disputes. This phase helps identify assets that pass outside the will and ensures the document coordinates with existing designations to prevent inconsistency. Accurate information reduces delays and supports a smoother probate process if administration is required.
Discussing Goals and Selecting Fiduciaries
We discuss your priorities for distribution, care for dependents, and the selection of a personal representative and any trustees. Choosing the right individuals for these roles is a practical decision that affects administration and the well-being of beneficiaries. We advise on naming alternates and structuring responsibilities to match capability and availability. This planning step clarifies expectations and reduces the likelihood of conflicts among family members during estate settlement, helping ensure tasks are carried out efficiently and in accordance with the will.
Step 2: Drafting the Will and Related Documents
After gathering information and confirming goals, we draft a will tailored to your circumstances and coordinate any related documents such as powers of attorney or advance health directives. The draft is reviewed with you to confirm language and make adjustments where necessary. We ensure compliance with Tennessee formalities for execution and provide guidance on safe storage and the importance of informing key individuals about document locations. Clear drafting reduces ambiguity and supports straightforward probate administration if needed.
Preparing a Draft and Reviewing Options
We prepare a draft will that addresses distribution, appointment of fiduciaries, and any specific bequests, then review the document with you to confirm accuracy and intent. During review we discuss contingencies, such as alternate beneficiaries and successor fiduciaries, to cover unexpected circumstances. This collaborative review helps ensure the language is clear and that the will interacts properly with other estate planning tools. Making adjustments at this stage prevents confusion later and helps streamline the probate process for those who will administer the estate.
Execution and Document Safekeeping
Once the will is finalized, we guide clients through proper execution steps, including required witnessing and signatures under Tennessee law. We discuss options for safekeeping, notifying trusted individuals of the document’s location, and coordinating beneficiary designations on accounts. Proper execution and sensible storage reduce the risk that the will will be challenged or that family members cannot locate it when needed. We can also provide advice on how to update the will over time as circumstances evolve.
Step 3: Probate Assistance and Estate Administration
If probate is required, we assist the personal representative with filing petitions, inventorying assets, notifying creditors and beneficiaries, and distributing assets according to the will or Tennessee law. Our goal is to manage administrative tasks efficiently, meet court deadlines, and communicate clearly with heirs to minimize confusion. We also help resolve disputes that may arise and provide practical strategies to complete administration with minimal delay and expense, always focusing on following the testator’s documented wishes and applicable legal procedures.
Filing and Court Administration
During probate we prepare and file necessary petitions with the appropriate Tennessee court, assist with required notices, and help the personal representative compile the estate inventory. This work includes identifying creditors, addressing claims, and ensuring statutory timelines are observed. Clear recordkeeping and timely filings help avoid procedural complications and support an orderly administration. Our assistance reduces the burden on family members while providing a structured approach to meet legal obligations and proceed toward final distribution.
Final Distribution and Closing the Estate
As the estate administration concludes, we assist with resolving remaining creditor claims, preparing accountings if required, and arranging final distributions to beneficiaries. We then take the necessary steps to close the estate with the court according to Tennessee procedures. Providing clear documentation of actions taken and communicating expected timelines to heirs helps reduce uncertainty. Our role is to support personal representatives through each stage so distributions occur in a timely manner and the estate is closed properly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Wills in Etowah
What makes a will valid in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a will is generally valid if the person making the will had the capacity to understand the nature of their property and the consequences of the document, signed the will, and had the signature witnessed according to state requirements. The witnesses attest that the signer executed the document voluntarily. Ensuring these formalities are followed reduces the risk of later challenges and supports smoother probate administration.It is also important to review beneficiary designations on accounts and title ownership, since some assets pass outside a will. Coordination between the will and other instruments helps avoid inconsistency. Consulting with an attorney and following proper execution steps helps confirm validity and reduces the potential for disputes during estate settlement.
Can I name a guardian for my children in a will?
Yes, you can nominate a guardian for minor children in your will, which provides a clear preference for who should care for them if both parents are deceased. This nomination gives the court direction about the parents’ wishes and is a core reason many families create wills. Selecting a guardian involves considering factors such as availability, willingness to serve, and the prospective guardian’s ability to provide a stable environment.It is wise to name alternate guardians in case your first choice is unable to serve, and to discuss your preferences with those you nominate. A will that includes guardianship instructions can be combined with trusts or other arrangements to provide for the financial needs of children until they reach an age you specify.
How often should I update my will?
You should review your will whenever significant life events occur, such as marriage, divorce, births, deaths, or major changes in your financial situation. Regular reviews every few years also help ensure the document remains up to date with current wishes and reflects any changes in laws that may affect estate planning. Updating beneficiary designations on retirement accounts and life insurance is equally important so they align with your will and overall plan.Keeping records organized and notifying trusted individuals about where documents are stored helps ensure that revisions are carried out and that the most recent will is located when needed. Periodic reviews reduce the chance that outdated provisions create unintended outcomes during probate.
Will my will avoid probate entirely?
A will does not necessarily avoid probate; it directs how assets that pass through probate should be distributed and who will serve as personal representative. Some assets, such as jointly owned property or accounts with designated beneficiaries, can transfer outside the probate process. The extent to which probate is required depends on how property is titled and the overall size and composition of the estate.If your goal is to minimize probate involvement, additional tools such as trusts or re-titling assets may be appropriate. A comprehensive review of ownership and beneficiary designations can reveal opportunities to streamline transfers and reduce the need for lengthy court administration.
What is the role of a personal representative?
A personal representative is appointed to manage the estate during probate, which includes gathering assets, paying debts and taxes, notifying beneficiaries, and distributing property according to the will or applicable law. The role carries fiduciary responsibilities and requires attention to detailed administrative tasks and court requirements. Choosing someone who is organized and willing to act in this capacity helps ensure the estate is handled responsibly.Naming alternates provides backup in case the primary choice cannot serve. The personal representative must keep records, communicate with beneficiaries, and act in the estate’s best interest. Professional assistance is often helpful for navigating legal procedures and meeting deadlines during administration.
Can beneficiaries be changed after I sign a will?
Beneficiaries named in a will can be changed by executing a new will or codicil that meets Tennessee formalities. However, assets with beneficiary designations on accounts or insurance typically pass according to those designations regardless of the will, so it is important to update those forms directly with the account holder. Ensuring consistency between the will and other beneficiary designations avoids unexpected distributions.Regular reviews and updates when life events occur help keep beneficiary information current. If you intend to disinherit someone who might otherwise inherit under intestacy rules, clear documentation and direct changes to beneficiary designations are essential to enforce your intentions.
How do joint accounts affect my will?
Joint accounts and jointly owned property often pass automatically to the surviving owner and may not be controlled by your will. This form of ownership can avoid probate but also means the asset may bypass instructions in a will. It is important to review how property is titled to understand how it will transfer at death and whether re-titling or beneficiary designations are necessary to reflect your wishes.Coordinating ownership forms with a will and other planning tools ensures that assets transfer according to your intentions. If you want a jointly owned asset to be distributed differently, you may need to change ownership or create additional planning mechanisms to achieve that result.
What happens if I die without a will in Tennessee?
If you die without a valid will in Tennessee, your property will be distributed according to state intestacy laws, which specify a hierarchy of heirs such as spouses, children, parents, or more distant relatives. This distribution may not match your personal wishes and can result in outcomes you would not have chosen. Intestacy also leaves decisions about guardianship and personal property unresolved by the deceased’s own direction.Creating a will allows you to name beneficiaries and fiduciaries, preventing intestacy from determining your estate’s outcome. Even a simple will can ensure that your preferences for distribution and guardianship are documented and followed as much as possible under Tennessee law.
Can I leave property to a friend or a charity?
You can leave property to friends, charities, or organizations in your will by naming them as beneficiaries and specifying the property or amount you wish to give. Clear identification of the recipient and the gift helps avoid confusion. Charitable bequests can also have tax implications, so coordinating them with your broader estate plan helps maximize the intended benefit while fitting into your overall distribution strategy.When including non-family beneficiaries, it is helpful to provide contact information and specific instructions for how the gift should be handled. Regularly confirming that beneficiary designations on accounts are consistent with your will prevents unintended conflicts between documents and ensures that gifts reach their intended recipients.
How do I store my will to ensure it is found when needed?
Store your will in a safe, accessible location and inform trusted individuals or your personal representative where it can be found. Options include a locked home safe, a secure safety deposit box, or retention with your attorney. Ensuring that the named personal representative knows how to access the document after your death reduces delays and confusion during probate.Avoid placing the only copy in a location that may be difficult to access when needed. Some clients provide a copy to a trusted family member along with a note identifying the original’s location, while others keep the executed original with their attorney for safekeeping. The goal is to make sure the will is readily located and produced when required for probate.