Wills and Estate Planning in Tennessee

In Tennessee, a will is a legal document that outlines how a person wishes to distribute their assets and property after their death. To create a valid will in Tennessee, the following requirements must be met:

1. The person creating the will (the testator) must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.

2. The will must be in writing and signed by the testator.

3. The will must be witnessed by two witnesses who are not beneficiaries of the will.

4. The witnesses must sign the will in the presence of the testator.

Tennessee recognizes holographic (handwritten) wills if they are entirely in the testator's handwriting and signed by the testator. However, holographic wills are not recommended as they can be more easily contested.

It is important to note that assets such as joint bank accounts or property owned with another person with a right of survivorship will pass to the surviving account holder or owner and not be controlled by the will.

If the testator dies without a valid will, their assets will be distributed according to Tennessee's intestacy laws, which prioritize spouses and descendants.

To ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, it is important to have a valid will in place. It is also recommended to review and update your will periodically to reflect changes in your life circumstances, such as marriage, divorce, or the birth of children or grandchildren.

A simple will  work for many people in Tennessee, depending on their specific needs and circumstances. A simple will is a legal document that outlines how a person's assets will be distributed after their death. It typically includes basic provisions for naming an executor or personal representative, identifying beneficiaries, and allocating assets. Simple wills are not normally expensive.