Estate Planning

It is not always a legal issue if someone has an influence over another person’s estate plan. For instance, an elderly parent may intentionally discuss the estate plan with their beneficiaries, looking to get feedback so that they can create a plan that works well for...

Estate planning is just as important for young adults as it is for senior citizens. Once a child reaches eighteen, parents lose legal authority to make decisions or access information about their child without consent. If a medical emergency occurs, parents may have...

A trust is a valuable tool that you can use to manage and distribute your assets. As part of a comprehensive estate plan, trusts can offer flexibility, privacy and other benefits for you and your beneficiaries.  Unlike a will, which has to go through probate, a trust...

Drafting an estate plan is an important step. However, it is not a one-time event. Life can change quickly, and an estate plan should always represent your current wishes.  Failing to update your estate plan could mean that your wishes aren’t honored in terms of your...

When your child was born, you put a lot of thought into who to name as their godparents – so why do you have to worry about naming a legal guardian in case you die before they become an adult? Isn’t your child’s godparent the same thing? Won’t they automatically step...

Ask anyone, and they would tell you they would rather have their parent than any inheritance. After all, no money in the world can replace the parent-child bond.  Still, even though most children understand that they will receive some legacy from their parents, few...

Many single individuals mistakenly believe that estate planning is only necessary for those with spouses or children. However, it is equally important for singles, particularly in Tennessee, where state-specific laws can impact how assets are distributed, and medical...

If you have a family business, you likely need a business succession plan. If you own a substantial amount of real estate, you may be deciding if you want to pass that to your beneficiaries or sell it and leave them the money. If you have significant financial assets,...

You likely put a lot of thought into choosing the person that you have designated to be your child’s legal guardian should something happen to you and your spouse or partner before your child reaches adulthood. Maybe you named one of your child’s grandparents, aunts...

Estate planning can be a sensitive process. Every decision you make will impact your legacy and loved ones. That's why it's recommended to work with different professionals to avoid costly mistakes.  So, should a financial advisor be among the professionals you hire?...