Tennessee Estate Packets & Pricing

** LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT ** 

There are several reasons why a person in Tennessee should consider creating a last will and testament. Here are three key reasons: 

Distribution of Assets: A last will and testament allows you to determine how your assets will be distributed after your death. If you do not have a will, Tennessee's intestate laws will dictate how your estate is divided. It is possible that this distribution may not align with your wishes. Instead, by having a will, you can ensure that your property, belongings, and finances are distributed according to your specific instructions. 

Guardianship of Minor Children: If you have minor children, a will allows you to designate a guardian for them in the event of your death. Without a will, the court will decide who will care for your children. The court may not pick the same person that you would have chosen. By naming a guardian in your will, you can have peace of mind knowing that your children will be taken care of by someone you trust. 

Minimizing Family Disputes: Creating a clear and legally binding will can help minimize potential disputes among family members after your passing. By explicitly stating your intentions and providing clear instructions, you can reduce the likelihood of disagreements and legal battles among your loved ones. It's important to note that the creation of a last will and testament involves legal complexities. It is advisable to consult with an attorney who specializes in estate planning to ensure that your will is properly drafted and executed in accordance with Tennessee laws. 

** DURABLE POWER OF ATTORNEY FOR HEALTHCARE AND FINANCE ** 

In the State of Tennessee, a durable power of attorney for healthcare and finance is an important legal document. A durable power of attorney allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf. The "DURABLE" aspect of the power of attorney means that it remains in effect even if you become incapacitated or mentally incompetent. This distinction is crucial because without a durable power of attorney, decisions regarding your healthcare and finances might require court intervention. Court procedures such as the appointment of a guardian or conservator, can be time-consuming, expensive, and may not align with your preferences. 

Here are some examples of instances where a durable power of attorney may be necessary: 

Healthcare Decisions: A durable power of attorney for healthcare enables you to designate a trusted person, often referred to as a healthcare proxy or agent, to make medical decisions on your behalf when you are unable to do so. This authority extends to decisions about medical treatments, procedures, medications, and other healthcare-related matters. It ensures that your healthcare preferences and wishes are respected, even if you are unable to communicate them yourself. 

Financial Decisions: A durable power of attorney for finance allows you to appoint an agent to handle your financial affairs and make decisions concerning your assets, debts, and financial matters. This person can manage your bank accounts, pay bills, file taxes, buy or sell property, and make other financial transactions on your behalf. A durable power of attorney provides a mechanism for someone to manage your finances when you are unable to do so yourself. By creating a durable power of attorney for healthcare and finance in Tennessee, you can ensure that trusted individuals are authorized to make important decisions on your behalf. It is essential to consult an attorney familiar with Tennessee's laws to ensure that your power of attorney documents comply with the state's specific requirements and provide the necessary authority for your designated agents. 

** ADVANCE DIRECTIVE FOR HEALTH CARE ** 

In the State of Tennessee, the Advance Directive for Health Care form is a legal document that allows an individual to appoint someone they trust to make decisions on their behalf in the event they become incapacitated or unable to make decisions for themselves. Filling out the Advance Directive for Health Care form in Tennessee offers several benefits. Here are some of the advantages of filing an Advance Directive for Health Care: 

Designation of Healthcare Proxy: In an advance directive, you can appoint a trusted individual as your healthcare agent or proxy. This person will have the authority to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so. Choosing someone you trust to advocate for your best interests ensures that your wishes are respected. 

Personalized Healthcare Decisions: By completing an advance directive, you can express your preferences and instructions regarding your medical care and treatment should you become unable to communicate or make decisions in the future. This ensures that healthcare decisions made on your behalf align with your values, beliefs, and personal wishes. 

Control Over Medical Treatment: An advance directive allows you to specify the types of medical treatments you would like to receive or refuse in certain situations. These can include decisions about life-sustaining measures, such as CPR (cardiopulmonary resuscitation), artificial ventilation, or tube feeding. You can also outline your preferences for pain management and end-of- life care. 

Relieving Burden on Family: Having an advance directive in place can alleviate the burden on your family members or loved ones who may otherwise have to make difficult medical decisions on your behalf, without knowing your preferences. An advance directive provides your family guidance during a challenging time. 

Legal Recognition: By completing the advance directive form according to Tennessee state laws, your wishes and instructions gain legal recognition. This means that healthcare providers and facilities are obligated to honor your directives and work with your designated healthcare agent. 

Peace of Mind: Finally, knowing that you have documented your healthcare preferences in advance can bring you peace of mind. It allows you to have a sense of control over your medical care, even in situations where you are unable to actively participate in decision-making. It's important to note that the specific benefits and implications of an advance directive may vary depending on the laws and regulations of your State. While you may have completed this form in another State, it's advisable to consult with legal professionals for detailed information about advance directives in Tennessee.