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      <title>Understanding Probate in Tennessee: What Families Should Know</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/understanding-probate-in-tennessee-what-families-should-know</link>
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      <content:encoded>&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Understanding Probate in Tennessee: What Families Should Know
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           What Is Probate?
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            Probate
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           is the legal process through which a deceased person's assets are transferred to their heirs or beneficiaries. In Tennessee, probate also involves validating the will (if there is one), appointing an executor or administrator, paying debts and taxes, and distributing remaining property. It’s a court-supervised process that provides structure and legal authority—but it can also be time-consuming and emotionally draining for grieving families.
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           If a person dies
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            with a will
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           , the probate court oversees the execution of their wishes. If they die
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            without a will
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           (called intestate), Tennessee law dictates how the estate is divided among legal heirs.
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            How Long Does Probate Take in Tennessee?
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           The probate timeline can vary, but most estates in Tennessee take
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            9 to 14 months
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           to complete, sometimes longer if complications arise. Creditors are given a set period (usually four months) to file claims, and the estate must remain open until those claims are resolved, and all assets have been gathered, sold, and distributed.
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           While small estates can sometimes qualify for simplified procedures, most families will need to go through standard probate—especially when real estate or significant assets are involved.
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            Can Probate Be Avoided?
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           Yes—in many cases, probate can be minimized or even avoided with careful planning. Using tools like
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            revocable living trusts
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           ,
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            payable-on-death (POD) accounts
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           , and
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            beneficiary designations
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           , allow individuals to pass assets outside the probate process.
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           That said, some level of probate may still be necessary, especially if there are overlooked assets, disputes, or debts to resolve. Having a comprehensive estate plan in place can help your loved ones avoid unnecessary court involvement and delays.
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            Why This Matters for Your Family
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           Probate can be overwhelming—especially for families dealing with grief. It often involves filing legal forms, gathering documents, notifying beneficiaries and creditors, and appearing in court. Without a plan in place, it’s easy for the process to become costly, delayed, or contested. Many counties require families to hire an attorney to represent the executor.
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           A well-crafted estate plan—especially one that includes a will and/or trust—gives your family clarity and direction. It helps ensure your wishes are honored and makes it easier for your loved ones to navigate legal requirements when the time comes. Whether you're planning ahead or already dealing with a loved one’s estate, we’re here to help. Contact our office today to learn more about the probate process in Tennessee—and how we can guide you through it with clarity and care.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:49:22 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/understanding-probate-in-tennessee-what-families-should-know</guid>
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      <title>Planning for Young Children: Naming Guardians and Setting Up Trusts</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/planning-for-young-children-naming-guardians-and-setting-up-trusts</link>
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         Planning for Young Children: Naming Guardians and Setting Up Trusts
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           Why Estate Planning Isn’t Just for the Elderly
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           Many parents assume estate planning is something they can deal with later in life. But if you have young children, the most important planning you’ll ever do might be now. A well-crafted estate plan ensures that if something were to happen to you, your children would be cared for by the people you choose—and that your assets would be managed wisely on their behalf.
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           Without a plan in place, the state of Tennessee may decide who takes care of your children and how assets are handled for the child’s benefit. That often involves court-appointed guardians and conservators, delays, significant costs, and added emotional stress for the people you love most.
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            Naming a Guardian: The Most Important Decision You May Ever Make
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           One of the most powerful things you can do as a parent is to name a legal guardian for your minor children. This is the person you trust to step into your shoes if you’re no longer able to care for your kids. You can name a guardian in your will, and you can even name a backup or co-guardians depending on your situation.
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           When choosing a guardian, consider values, parenting style, location, and emotional readiness. The decision doesn’t have to be permanent—you can revise it as your children grow and your relationships evolve. What matters is putting your wishes in writing so a court can follow them.
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            Protecting Their Inheritance with a Trust
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           Minor children can’t legally inherit money or property directly. If you were to pass away without a trust in place, the court may assign someone to manage the inheritance—often under strict limitations—until your child turns 18, sometimes 21. At that point, they’d receive everything outright, whether they’re ready or not.
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           A revocable living trust allows you to choose how and when your assets are distributed. For example, you might provide for health, education, and basic needs while the child is young, then allow more access as they reach adulthood. You also get to choose the trustee who will manage the funds according to your instructions.
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            Give Your Family Clarity and Confidence
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           Planning for the unexpected isn’t easy, but it’s one of the most loving steps you can take for your children. It ensures they’ll be cared for by the right people, in the right way, with less confusion and stress during a difficult time. We help parents across Tennessee create estate plans that protect their children and reflect their values. Contact our office today to start planning with peace of mind.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:44:47 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/planning-for-young-children-naming-guardians-and-setting-up-trusts</guid>
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      <title>What Is a Special Needs Trust and Who Needs One?</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/what-is-a-special-needs-trust-and-who-needs-one</link>
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         What Is a Special Needs Trust and Who Needs One?
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          Understanding the Purpose of a Special Needs Trust
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           A Special Needs Trust (SNT) or Supplemental Needs Trust is a legal tool that allows you to leave money or property to a loved one with a disability without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). These programs often have strict income and asset limits, so even a small inheritance could unintentionally disqualify someone from essential support—unless it's handled correctly.
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           A Special Needs Trust solves this problem by placing the assets in a trust, managed by a trustee, rather than giving them directly to the beneficiary. This way, the trust can pay for things that improve the beneficiary’s quality of life—like medical care not covered by insurance, education, transportation, and recreation—without affecting eligibility for needs-based benefits.
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            Who Should Consider Creating One?
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           If you have a child, sibling, or other loved one with a physical or intellectual disability, a Special Needs Trust can help ensure they’re cared for in the future—even if you're not there to do it yourself. This kind of trust is especially important in situations where:
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             The person is receiving (or may one day receive) public benefits
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             You want to provide financial support in a controlled, protected way
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             You’re planning for long-term care or guardianship transitions
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           There are also different types of Special Needs Trusts (like first-party and third-party trusts), and the right choice depends on where the funding comes from and who is setting it up. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you choose the best option based on your family’s unique situation.
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            Peace of Mind for You and Protection for Them
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           Creating a Special Needs Trust is a powerful way to protect a vulnerable loved one’s future while preserving their independence and benefits. It gives you peace of mind knowing they’ll be financially supported without unnecessary complications.
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           If you have a family member with special needs, we can help you create a plan that honors their dignity and safeguards their care. Contact our office today to learn more about Special Needs Trusts in Tennessee and whether one is right for your situation.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:41:50 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/what-is-a-special-needs-trust-and-who-needs-one</guid>
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      <title>How to Choose the Right Executor or Trustee for Your Estate Plan</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/how-to-choose-the-right-executor-or-trustee-for-your-estate-plan</link>
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         How to Choose the Right Executor or Trustee for Your Estate Plan
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          What Is the Difference Between an Executor and a Trustee?
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           In estate planning, two of the most important roles you’ll assign are your
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            executor
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           , often called a personal representative, and your
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            trustee
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           . Though they both help carry out your wishes, they serve different purposes. An
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            executor
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           is named in your will and is responsible for managing your estate through the probate process after you pass away. This includes paying debts, filing final tax returns, and distributing assets to your beneficiaries.
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           A
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            trustee
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           , on the other hand, is appointed to manage and distribute the assets held in a
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            trust
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           . If you’ve set up a revocable living trust, your trustee may take over not only after your death but also if you become incapacitated. Trustees may have ongoing duties—especially if your trust includes instructions for staged distributions or long-term asset management.
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            Qualities to Look For
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           Whether you’re naming an executor, a trustee, or both, you want someone who is
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            responsible, organized,
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           and
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            trustworthy
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           . They don’t need to be a legal or financial expert—they can hire professionals to help—but they should be capable of making decisions, keeping records, and communicating clearly with your beneficiaries.
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           Consider someone who is:
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             Detail-oriented and timely
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             Good with financial matters or willing to seek guidance
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             Impartial and level-headed in family dynamics
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             Willing to follow your instructions carefully, even if it’s emotionally difficult
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           It’s also wise to name a backup in case your first choice is unable or unwilling to serve when the time comes.
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            Family Member or Professional?
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           Many people choose a spouse, adult child, or close friend—but this isn’t always the best fit. In complex situations, or if there’s tension among beneficiaries, a neutral third party such as an attorney, CPA, or professional fiduciary may be the better choice. A professional can offer experience, objectivity, and accountability—especially helpful in blended families or high-asset estates. Choosing the right executor or trustee is a critical part of building an estate plan that works. Contact our office today to discuss your options and get guidance on selecting someone you—and your family—can count on.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:38:17 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/how-to-choose-the-right-executor-or-trustee-for-your-estate-plan</guid>
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      <title>Understanding Powers of Attorney in Tennessee</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/understanding-powers-of-attorney-in-tennessee</link>
      <description />
      <content:encoded>&lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
  
         Understanding Powers of Attorney in Tennessee
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          What Is a Power of Attorney?
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           A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that allows someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf. In Tennessee, there are several types of POAs, but they generally fall into two main categories: financial and health care. These documents are essential tools in any well-rounded estate plan, giving your chosen agent the authority to assist you or act if you become unable to do so yourself.
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           A Financial Power of Attorney allows your agent to manage tasks like paying bills, accessing bank accounts, handling investments, or managing property. A Health Care Power of Attorney—sometimes called a Health Care Proxy or Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care—lets your agent make medical decisions for you if you're unable to speak for yourself.
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            Why Powers of Attorney Matter
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           Without a POA, if something happens to you—such as an illness, injury, or cognitive decline—your loved ones may need to go to court to be granted the legal authority to help you. This can be a time-consuming and stressful process during what is likely already a difficult time. Having POAs in place gives your family peace of mind and ensures that the people you trust are in charge.
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           These documents are also flexible. You can define when the POA takes effect, limit or expand the agent’s authority, and name backup agents in case your first choice is unavailable. An experienced estate planning attorney can help ensure your POAs reflect your wishes clearly and comply with Tennessee law.
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            Protecting Yourself With the Right Documents
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           A Power of Attorney isn't just for seniors—it's for anyone who wants to be prepared for the unexpected. Whether you’re traveling, going through a medical procedure, or just planning for the future, POAs help make sure you're protected and your affairs are in trusted hands. 
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           Need help creating a Power of Attorney or reviewing your existing documents? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and take the next step toward peace of mind.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:26:28 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/understanding-powers-of-attorney-in-tennessee</guid>
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      <title>What’s the Difference Between a Will and a Trust in Tennessee?</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-will-and-a-trust-in-tennessee</link>
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         What’s the Difference Between a Will and a Trust in Tennessee?
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          Understanding the Basics
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           Wills and trusts are both powerful estate planning tools, but they serve different purposes—and understanding the difference can help you choose the right approach for your situation. In Tennessee, a will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for how your assets should be distributed after your death. A trust, on the other hand, is a legal arrangement that can hold and manage assets during your lifetime and beyond.
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           A will only takes effect after death and must go through the probate process, where a court oversees the distribution of your estate. This can take time, and becomes public record. A trust, especially a revocable living trust, takes effect as soon as it's created, and assets held in the trust can often be passed to beneficiaries without going through probate, offering more privacy and efficiency.
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            Which One Do You Need?
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           Many people assume a will is all they need—and for some, that may be true. A will allows you to name an executor, appoint guardians for minor children, and outline who inherits what. However, if you want to avoid probate, plan for incapacity, or control how and when your assets are distributed, a trust may be a better option.
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           Trusts are especially helpful for those with real estate in multiple states, blended families, or loved ones who may need protection from creditors or for managing large sums of money on their own. Trusts also allow you to set conditions—for example, leaving assets to a child in stages or protecting a loved one with special needs.
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            Wills and Trusts Often Work Together
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           It’s not always a matter of choosing one or the other. In fact, many comprehensive estate plans include both. A will can serve as a “backup” document to a trust, handling any assets not transferred into the trust during your lifetime. This is often called a pour-over will. Together, these tools can provide peace of mind and a strong foundation for protecting your family and your legacy.
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           Every family’s situation is different. If you're unsure whether a will, a trust, or both are right for you, contact our office today to schedule a consultation. We’ll help you understand your options and create a plan that fits your goals.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:23:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/whats-the-difference-between-a-will-and-a-trust-in-tennessee</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
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      <title>What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Tennessee?</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/what-happens-if-you-die-without-a-will-in-tennessee</link>
      <description />
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         What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Tennessee?
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          Tennessee’s Intestacy Laws Decide for You
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            Many people put off writing a will, thinking it’s something they’ll get to “someday”. But in Tennessee, dying without a valid will—legally called dying intestate—means that your estate will be distributed according to a strict formula set by state law, not according to your personal wishes. This can lead to unintended consequences and unnecessary stress for your loved ones during an already difficult time.
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            Under Tennessee intestacy laws, your assets will be divided among your closest legal relatives—starting with your spouse and children. If you have no surviving spouse or children, your estate may go to your parents, siblings, or more distant relatives. This process may not reflect your personal relationships or intentions. For example, a long-term partner who isn’t legally married to you, stepchildren, or close friends will receive nothing under state law unless specifically named in a will.
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             No Will Means No Control
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            Without a will, the court also chooses who will manage your estate. That person may not be who you would have selected yourself. You also lose the ability to name a guardian for your children or decide how personal, sentimental, or family heirlooms should be handled. This lack of clarity can lead to family conflict, inability to access financial accounts, and significant costs and legal fees.
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             Creating a Will
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            A properly drafted will gives you control over who inherits your property, who manages your estate, and how your wishes are carried out. It brings peace of mind to you and clear direction to your loved ones. If you’ve been putting it off, consider taking the first step. A will doesn’t have to be complicated—but it does need to be done.
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            Need help creating a will or estate plan in Tennessee? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and get started.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:21:24 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/what-happens-if-you-die-without-a-will-in-tennessee</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string" />
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    <item>
      <title>Advance Directives: Planning Ahead for Medical Decisions in Tennessee</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/advance-directives-planning-ahead-for-medical-decisions-in-tennessee</link>
      <description />
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          Advance Directives: Planning Ahead for Medical Decisions in Tennessee
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           What Is an Advance Directive?
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          An Advance Directive is a legal document that outlines your wishes for medical care if you become unable to communicate those wishes yourself. In Tennessee, this document plays a crucial role in ensuring that your health care decisions reflect your values, beliefs, and preferences—especially during emergencies or serious illness.
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          Advance Directives, sometimes referred to as a Living Will, state what kind of life-sustaining treatment you do or do not want (such as ventilators, feeding tubes, or resuscitation), and a Health Care Power of Attorney, which names someone you trust to make decisions for you. Together, these tools provide guidance to your doctors and loved ones when clarity matters most.
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           Why Advance Directives Matter in Tennessee
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          Without an Advance Directive, your loved ones may be left to make difficult choices without knowing what you would have wanted. In Tennessee, doctors will typically turn to your next of kin to make decisions, but this may not align with your preferences—and it can lead to conflict among family members.
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          Creating an Advance Directive helps prevent confusion and disagreement. It empowers you to express your values ahead of time and relieves your family from the burden of guessing your wishes. It's also a key part of ensuring that your rights and dignity are respected at every stage of care.
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           When Should You Create One?
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          The best time to create an Advance Directive is before you need it—ideally as part of your overall estate plan. These documents can be updated at any time, so it’s okay if your preferences evolve. Whether you're young and healthy or facing medical challenges, having your wishes clearly documented ensures you're prepared for the unexpected. Ready to create or update your Advance Directive? Contact our office today to schedule a consultation and make sure your voice is heard—even if you can’t speak for yourself.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 08 May 2025 18:16:37 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/advance-directives-planning-ahead-for-medical-decisions-in-tennessee</guid>
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      <title>Dividing An Estate Between Adult Children</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/dividing-an-estate-between-adult-children</link>
      <description>Some parents in Tennessee who are creating estate plans may wonder whether they should divide their assets equally among their adult children. When making this important decision, there are several factors they should consider. Equal or equitable? First, parents...</description>
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           Dividing An Estate Between Adult Children
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           Some parents in Tennessee who are creating estate plans may wonder whether they should divide their assets equally among their adult children. When making this important decision, there are several factors they should consider.
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           Equal or equitable?
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           First, parents should keep in mind that “equal” and “equitable” are not necessarily the same thing. An 
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           equal d
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           ivisio
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            might seem better for sibling relations, but people may want to consider whether their children have had the same financial advantages.
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           For example, a parent may have helped one child more during the parent’s life. In a case like this, a parent may want to leave less money to that child and consider what they have already given as an advance of the inheritance. Parents may also want to consider whether to divide their estates based on the financial needs of their children. A more responsible child may get more money than one who is struggling.
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           On the other hand, perhaps one child needs more financial help than a child that has his or her own financial assets. Additionally, even if parents want to divide assets equally, sentimental factors may play a role in the decision-making. Perhaps one asset with less monetary value has more meaning, hence “value” to one child than it does another.
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           These are all factors that can weigh into the final disposition of property.
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           Avoiding challenges
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            Another factor parents may want to consider is whether one child has acted as their primary caregiver. In this instance, the child that has been more supportive of the parents while living may be entitled to a greater share of the inheritance.
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           Sometimes the parent has been the caregiver for an adult child and may decide that the child needs continued care after the parent’s death. Siblings are likely to be understanding if one of them has a medical condition that requires lifelong care that would require a parent to leave substantial assets, in trust, for that child with special needs.
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           Despite the best planning, resentment among siblings and other beneficiaries can arise. In order to avoid such issues, it may be prudent to explain your reasoning to the children prior to your death or leave a letter for the children to read so they are educated on why the assets were not divided equally.
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           No-contest clauses
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           For more contentious situations, there are safeguards parents can build into their estate plans to reduce the likelihood of any challenges that might arise, whatever the nature. For example, a “no-contest” clause could specify that a person who contests the Will loses his or her inheritance.
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           Trust provisions
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           Another great alternative for placing conditions on children who might raise questions about your decisions is to use trust provisions that indicate when and under what conditions children may receive their inheritance. Having close family members or the family physician involved in the Will execution could also prevent suspicions about whether one child has unduly influenced the parents’ decisions, which is one of the main concerns that arise in Will contests.
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           Lastly, solid planning during a period of time when parents are unquestionably competent and in control of their assets is the best time to execute estate documents. Often last minute Wills where only one family member is involved casts doubt about the process.
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           Professional assistance
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           In the end, parents may decide that preserving family harmony is more important than dividing assets exactly the way they would really have preferred. Having a lawyer and financial adviser involved in the planning and execution of all of the documents is well advised for all parents so that an objective professional can talk through the issues and educate on how best to resolve any concerns.
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           Many times, people attempt to draft their own documents, but aren’t familiar with the laws. This can lead to their intentions being thwarted no matter what decisions they have made about dividing their assets among the children. Parents should view estate planning as their final gift to their family.
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&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Mon, 09 Nov 2020 21:47:07 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/dividing-an-estate-between-adult-children</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Estate Planning</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>Offered store credit? Watch out!</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/offered-store-credit-watch-out</link>
      <description>Shop in any major department store and you can’t get through a checkout line without the sales representative or cashier asking you if you’d like to file an application for store credit. Do it, they say, and you can get all kinds of perks -- including a discount on...</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h3&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/blog/2020/08/offered-store-credit-watch-out/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           Offered store credit?
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    &lt;a href="https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/blog/2020/08/offered-store-credit-watch-out/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
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            ﻿
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           Watch out!
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           Shop in any major department store and you can’t get through a checkout line without the sales representative or cashier asking you if you’d like to file an application for store credit. Do it, they say, and you can get all kinds of perks — including a discount on your current purchase.
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           It sounds like a good idea, especially if you’re money-conscious. Plus, you may think, store credit is notoriously easier to obtain than regular credit cards. If you’re trying to build a bigger credit history, you may have even heard that getting a few store credit cards is a good idea.
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           But store credit comes with a very big price: They almost all have an exorbitant interest rate. 
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    &lt;a href="https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0511/store-credit-card-traps-to-avoid.aspx" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           The v
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    &lt;a href="https://www.investopedia.com/financial-edge/0511/store-credit-card-traps-to-avoid.aspx" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           ast majority
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            charge consumers 25% interest on their purchases, and some charge as much as 30%. That makes whatever discount you’re getting virtually worthless unless you can pay the balance off within 30 days.
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           But what if you really, really want that card because you need a big-ticket item and you’re willing to sacrifice the extra money it costs you in the long-run? Well, another problem with store credit is that you can easily get overwhelmed with the debts. Over time, you may not be able to keep up with the payments, especially if your fortunes change and your income is reduced (or your expenses increase).
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           The best thing to do is to eschew store credit entirely unless you are 100% certain that both the discount you’re being offered is substantial (and you’re using it on a major purchase) and you have the ability to pay off the bill as soon as it’s due.
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           Is it already too late? If you’re in over your head financially and the debts just keep piling up, it may be time to talk about bankruptcy. 
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           Chapter 7 bankruptcy
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            can offer you the fresh start you need.
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&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Fri, 14 Aug 2020 14:33:26 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/offered-store-credit-watch-out</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Bankruptcy</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/md/unsplash/dms3rep/multi/photo-1503980850968-b7c3b4af0e05.jpg">
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      <title>Is your estate plan prepared for illness, accidents and incapacitation?</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/is-your-estate-plan-prepared-for-illness-accidents-and-incapacitation</link>
      <description>Many people know that creating an estate plan is a way of providing for your loved ones after your passing. However, if you have not prepared for incapacitation, your estate plan may not give you and your loved ones all the support needed. An accident could leave you...</description>
      <content:encoded>&lt;div data-rss-type="text"&gt;&#xD;
  &lt;h2&gt;&#xD;
    &lt;a href="https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/blog/2020/08/is-your-estate-plan-prepared-for-illness-accidents-and-incapacitation/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           Is your estate plan prepared for illness, accidents and incapacitation?
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           Many people know that creating an estate plan is a way of providing for your loved ones after your passing. However, if you have not prepared for incapacitation, your estate plan may not give you and your loved ones all the support needed. An accident could leave you critically injured or an illness could make you unable to make decisions for yourself. Your estate plan should prepare for these challenges.
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            Who will make financial decisions if
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           you cannot make them yourself?
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            If you are unable to make decisions for yourself, you will need someone you trust to manage your finances. A financial power of attorney is a document that gives someone you trust the authority to make these decisions on your behalf. Depending on the terms outlined in your power of attorney, your representative can act in a wide variety of legal and financial situations.
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           These include:
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            Access your bank accounts and other savings
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            File taxes on your behalf
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            Managing your finances, including making investment decisions
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            Collecting debts owed to you
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            Applying for benefits on your behalf
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            Paying bills for your housing, healthcare and other needs
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            Buying and selling property in your name
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           These documents give your representative a great deal of power over your possessions, and this power could be abused. It is essential that you choose someone that you trust to act on your behalf, and you may want to consider naming 
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    &lt;a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/christinefletcher/2019/09/12/9-things-you-need-to-know-about-power-of-attorney/" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           two agents to work together
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            Your estate planning attorney can walk you through the decision-making process.
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            Who will make decisions about your
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           health and care?
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           If you become incapacitated, you may need a great deal of healthcare. Just as a power of attorney can grant your representative the authority to make financial decisions on your behalf, a power of attorney can also allow the person of your choice to make healthcare decisions for you. This allows your agent to carry out your desires regarding healthcare facilities, medical procedures and treatments and who you would choose as your caregivers. Without a power of attorney, someone else may decide for you and it may not always be what you would have wanted.
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            ﻿
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           Powers of attorney are only one way to prepare for incapacitation, and they can be supplemented by other documents. 
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    &lt;a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/in-depth/living-wills/art-20046303" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           A living will
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            can detail your wishes for pain management and other medical care. A do not resuscitate (DNR) order establishes your wishes about resuscitation and other life-sustaining procedures. You may also want to 
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    &lt;a href="https://www.hhs.gov/hipaa/for-professionals/faq/authorizations/index.html" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           establish a HIPAA release or authorization
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            to allow your representative to receive healthcare information that would usually be restricted by privacy laws.
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           Because there are a variety of options available to you, it can be important to speak to an estate planning attorney about your options. With careful planning, you can prepare for difficult situations and ensure that your wishes for your care are respected.
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&lt;/div&gt;</content:encoded>
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      <pubDate>Wed, 05 Aug 2020 14:36:25 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/is-your-estate-plan-prepared-for-illness-accidents-and-incapacitation</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Estate Planning</g-custom:tags>
      <media:content medium="image" url="https://irp-cdn.multiscreensite.com/md/unsplash/dms3rep/multi/photo-1543779848-da02f76efe5e.jpg">
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    <item>
      <title>Should you create a financial power of attorney?</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/should-you-create-a-financial-power-of-attorney</link>
      <description>There are many aspects of your estate plan designed to protect you in the event of incapacity. A financial power of attorney is one such document. Not only does it provide you with peace of mind, but it can go a long way in keeping your finances in order if you’re...</description>
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           Should you create a financial power of attorney?
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           There are many aspects of your estate plan designed to protect you in the event of incapacity. A financial power of attorney is one such document. Not only does it provide you with peace of mind, but it can go a long way in keeping your finances in order if you’re unable to manage them yourself.
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           Through a financial power of attorney, you name an agent who has the power to make financial decisions on your behalf. While this is a big responsibility and a lot of power, remember this: The person doesn’t have the ability to do whatever they want. They must always act in your best interest.
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           Agent responsibilities
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           One of the primary benefits of a 
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    &lt;a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/blog/financial-power-of-attorney" target="_blank"&gt;&#xD;
      
           financial power of attorney
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            is the ability to set limits in regard to the power of your agent. You don’t have to give them full control over your finances, unless you feel comfortable doing so. It’s up to you to decide what types of limits to set.
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           Here are some of the responsibilities you may want to place on your agent:
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            Paying your bills and taxes
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            Investing
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            Managing your home and other real estate
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            Buying insurance policies on your behalf
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            Operating your small business to keep it running as expected
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           No matter what types of limits you set, you’re still giving your agent a lot of responsibility. And for that reason, it’s critical that you choose a person who is trustworthy, good with finances and has the availability to help. An estate planning attorney will discuss additional factors to consider in naming the right person for the job. The good news is that you can always revoke or change who you name at any time. Remember, the document is meant to give you peace of mind.
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           You are under no obligation to 
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           create a financial power of attorney
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           , but it may be something you want to add to your estate plan. It’s your hope that your agent never has to step in and manage your finances, but the future is unknown.
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           As you move through the process of creating a financial power of attorney, make sound decisions with the idea of protecting yourself and your assets in the future.
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      <pubDate>Thu, 09 Jul 2020 15:12:36 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/should-you-create-a-financial-power-of-attorney</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Estate Planning</g-custom:tags>
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      <title>What estate planning documents do I need beyond a will?</title>
      <link>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/what-estate-planning-documents-do-i-need-beyond-a-will</link>
      <description>When people think about estate planning, they usually know that one essential part of that is creating a Will. They seek an estate law attorney’s help in writing a Will because they want control over who will receive their assets after their death and want to make it...</description>
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           What estate planning documents do I need
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           beyond a will?
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           When people think about estate planning, they usually know that one essential part of that is creating a Will. They seek an estate law attorney’s help in writing a Will because they want control over who will receive their assets after their death and want to make it easier for their loved ones to settle their estate.
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            Yet, creating a Will isn’t the only estate planning tool you need.
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           Here are three other documents you want to take care of when you are making a comprehensive estate plan:
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           1. A 
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           living will
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            and health care power of attorney designation
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           You never know what the future holds. If you were to be involved in a tragic auto accident or develop early onset Alzheimer’s, having a living will gives your family direction on what type of care you’d like to receive. You can designate if you want to be kept on life support or receive food via feeding tube.
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           You can also designate a health care power of attorney, who can make care decisions for you if you are incapacitated. This person must carry out your wishes as your agent.
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           2. A durable power of attorney
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           The person you designate as your power of attorney will make financial decisions if you are no longer mentally competent. You can appoint someone to handle your bank accounts, tax matters and even voting if you cannot handle those financial affairs.
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           3. Guardianship designations
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           If you have children, you want to ensure you’ve legally named a guardian for them as part of your estate plan. If you and your spouse pass away before they turn 18, you want to choose the person who will best care for them. Naming their guardian in your estate plan will do that. You can also outline terms governing when your children or a special needs individual can access to money outright. Few 18 year olds are prepared to have a large sum of money with no oversight.
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           Many adults put off estate planning. In fact, in a 2019 survey, the website Caring.com noted that 
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           only 40% of adult respondents had a Will in place
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           , even though 60% thought estate planning was important.
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           You can give yourself, and your family, peace of mind by not only creating a Will, but by investing in these other essential estate planning documents. Then you and your family will know that your future is safeguarded and your wishes can be carried out.
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      <pubDate>Wed, 27 May 2020 15:35:40 GMT</pubDate>
      <author>april@aprilrandlelaw.com (April Randle)</author>
      <guid>https://www.aprilrandlelaw.com/what-estate-planning-documents-do-i-need-beyond-a-will</guid>
      <g-custom:tags type="string">Estate Planning,Firm News</g-custom:tags>
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