Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your family and your legacy. Yet many Tennesseans make mistakes that cause confusion, delay, or even disputes in probate court. If you’re in Sevierville, Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Nashville or anywhere across East and Middle Tennessee, here are five mistakes to avoid when drafting your will and how Champagne Law Firm can help you plan with confidence.
1. Not Following Tennessee’s Legal Requirements
A will isn’t valid just because you wrote it down. Tennessee law has specific requirements for witnesses and signatures. Failing to meet these rules could mean your will is rejected in probate.
2. Forgetting to Update Your Will
Life changes such as marriages, divorces, children, and new property acquisitions all impact your estate. Outdated wills often lead to disputes or unintended inheritances.
3. Leaving Out Key Assets
Some people assume certain assets, like retirement accounts or jointly owned property, don’t need to be addressed in their will. Without clear direction, these can become points of confusion or conflict.
4. Naming the Wrong Executor
Choosing an executor is more than just naming someone you trust. That person must be organized, reliable, and able to manage both legal and financial responsibilities. Many problems arise when executors are unprepared or unwilling to serve.
5. Trying to Do It Alone
Online templates and handwritten notes may seem convenient, but they often create more problems than they solve. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney ensures your will is enforceable and tailored to your situation.
At Champagne Law Firm, with offices in Sevierville, Nashville, and Rogersville, we help families across Tennessee create wills that stand the test of time. We understand the challenges, avoid the pitfalls, and provide peace of mind that your wishes will be honored.
Call Champagne Law Firm at 865-228-8080 or reach out online to schedule a consultation about creating or updating your will in Tennessee.
