Probate - Judkins Law Firm

Should You Worry About The Probate Process?

The sudden and unexpected or prolonged passing of a loved one can be overwhelming, and if a will was not in place prior to passing, the prospect of settling the estate can seem completely out of reach. This is something we understand here at Judkins Law Firm. After a loved one passes, many family members feel that they need to handle settling their loved one’s affairs on their own. The thought of opening a formal estate with the court can be daunting, leaving you with a lack of knowledge and understanding of how to handle this sometimes difficult situation.

The Probate Process

Probate is the process of settling a person's affairs, paying off any remaining valid debts, ensuring the deceased’s final wishes are honored, and distributing assets to the heirs or will beneficiaries, sometimes under court supervision. Not every situation requires a formal probate proceeding, however, and the process can vary depending on the facts and circumstances. At times the process can feel overwhelming, but an experienced probate attorney can help you decide if probate is even necessary, as well as relieve you of some burdensome tasks.

Is the probate process expensive, lengthy, and time-consuming? Though it can seem daunting, a majority of probate proceedings are neither expensive nor prolonged. In Tennessee, this process has become a lot simpler and easier than it once was thanks to streamlining efforts from the state legislature and a repeal of the inheritance tax, which has further simplified the process for many people. Consulting a probate attorney like Judkins Law Firm can provide advice and guidance on how to complete the probate process and avoid unnecessary fees and expenses in the most-efficient and quickest way.
How is the probate process handled in Tennessee? The first step in this process is to determine whether the deceased left a will. Court supervision of the process is sometimes required to appoint a representative to act for the estate. If there is a will, the persons appointed by the will usually are appointed. This person, called an executor or an administrator, is charged with administering the estate in accordance with the deceased’s wishes and the law. Many aspects of settling an estate are a part of probate, including inventorying assets, valuing assets, contacting beneficiaries, paying remaining debts, and making sure heirs and beneficiaries receive the assets to which they are entitled.
Are attorneys always required in the probate process? Not always. Many people handle the process on their own without the assistance of an attorney. However, it is always a good idea to consult with an attorney before diving into the process. Attorneys can help you avoid mistakes that may cause lost time and additional expenses.

Whether you are creating an estate plan or settling an estate of a deceased person, our lawyers at Judkins Law firm can help you and your family avoid complications and make sound, practical decisions. We can help make the process for the distribution of assets run more smoothly for you during a difficult time for your family.

Experienced Representation From Caring Counsel

For more than 40 years, Judkins Law Firm has represented clients in communities throughout Anderson County and across Tennessee. Our goal is to provide excellent value to clients with valuable information and aggressive, competent representation in a broad range of matters. We are the firm people in Tennessee turn to for their legal needs.

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After Being Neglected By Another Firm Mr. Judkins assisted me in winning a case in six months where a previous attorney who had my case for over two years had failed and refused to carry on any further. He was very knowledgeable, thorough and communicated well with me. His entire staff was very professional and seemed glad to assist me at every turn. As this was a Social Security Disability case he didn’t stand to make a ton of money off his labors yet he worked as if he did. I would HIGHLY recommend him for whatever matters you may be needing assistance in.
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Judkins Law Firm provides our clients with helpful, competent and friendly service. After-hours and weekend appointments are available. We look forward to meeting you and speaking with you about your legal needs.

1143 Oak Ridge Turnpike
Suite 202
Oak Ridge, TN 37830

Phone: 865-830-3405

Fax: 865-482-3434