Wills Attorneys Serving Knoxville, Tennessee 

Making a will is a responsible and thoughtful way to protect both your assets and the people you care about most. While it’s possible to find templates and DIY solutions online, an estate planning attorney brings unparalleled value to this process by addressing the unique details of your case and making sure your will complies with Tennessee law. 

At the Law Office of Joshua S. Reed, we help Tennessee residents create wills that meet their needs and goals. With years of dedicated experience, our estate planning attorneys understand the weight and significance of crafting a well-thought-out will. When you work with our firm, you receive personalized advice tailored to your family dynamics, property holdings, and long-term objectives.  

If you live in Knoxville, Farragut, or nearby communities, call us for help creating a will that provides peace of mind and security to your loved ones. 

What Is a Will and Why Do You Need One?

At its core, a will is a legal document that mentions your intentions regarding the distribution of your assets after your passing. It can also include instructions for appointing guardians for minor children, expressing funeral preferences, or donating to causes close to your heart. A valid will upholds your intentions and minimizes the potential for family conflicts. 

In the absence of a will, Tennessee intestacy laws will determine how your property is distributed. While these laws provide a default framework, they rarely reflect the specific preferences of an individual or family. A will allows you to retain control over important estate planning decisions and reduce the stress placed on loved ones. 

Benefits of Working with Our Firm

Drafting a will isn’t just about deciding who gets what; it’s a complicated process that requires attention to detail, a deep understanding of your circumstances, and familiarity with state and federal laws.  

Here’s how we can simplify and enhance the experience: 

• Tailored guidance: Every family is unique. Whether you have a blended family, children with special needs, or complicated business assets, our attorneys will address these unique factors to create a will that honors your intentions. 

• Legal compliance: A will must meet specific legal requirements to be considered valid in Tennessee. We make sure your documentation aligns with state laws, reducing the risk of potential challenges. 

• Reduced family disputes: The process of creating a clear and legally binding will often reduces potential misunderstandings or disputes that might arise. 

• Periodic updates: Life is constantly changing—marriages, divorces, new additions to the family, and shifts in financial circumstances are just a few reasons to revisit your will. We make sure your plans adapt seamlessly to reflect the milestones and evolution of your life. 

• Comprehensive support: Our experienced team guides you through each step of the estate planning process, making sure no detail is overlooked and that your wishes are fully documented and protected.  

• Personalized approach: We take the time to understand your unique circumstances and goals, tailoring our recommendations and strategies to suit your needs and priorities. 

Tennessee Laws Governing Wills

Creating a will in Tennessee requires a clear understanding of the state’s legal requirements. Here are some key points to consider: 

• Legal age: To write a will in Tennessee, you must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind. 

• Witness requirements: The will must be signed by the person creating it (the testator) and two witnesses. Both witnesses must watch the testator sign the will and provide their own signatures in the testator’s presence. In Tennessee, notaries are not permitted to serve as substitutes for witnesses. 

• Holographic wills: Tennessee recognizes holographic wills (those written entirely in the testator’s handwriting) as valid, provided two witnesses can verify the handwriting. 

• Revocation and updates: A will can be revoked or updated at any time during the testator's life. This is often done by drafting a new will or creating a codicil (an amendment to the original will). 

• Spousal rights: Tennessee law affords spouses specific legal protections. If someone tries to disinherit their spouse, the law allows the surviving spouse to claim a portion of the estate through an elective share. This is typically one-third of the estate if there are children, or one-half if there are no children. 

• Exemptions and allowances: Tennessee law also provides exemptions and allowances for certain property that cannot be included in a will. These include items such as a family allowance (providing support to surviving family members), exempt property (including clothing and household furnishings), and a homestead allowance (a specific amount of real property). 

• Challenges to a will: A will can be challenged in court by interested parties who believe that the document does not accurately represent the testator's wishes. Common challenges include a lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, or mistake.  

Wills Attorneys Serving Knoxville, Tennessee

At the Law Office of Joshua S. Reed in Knoxville, Tennessee, we give you the focused attention you deserve. Unlike bigger law firms, we dedicate ample time and diligence to each case. With a small firm like ours, you receive personalized care tailored to your unique needs. Our goal is to stand by your side throughout the process, offering proactive legal representation when it matters most. Call to schedule a consultation in Knoxville, Farragut, or surrounding areas.