Tennessee is the perfect state for families to enjoy together. Over time, the children in these families become adults, and their parents become senior citizens. As this happens, adult children must ensure their parents have estate plans. Addressing common estate...
Estate Planning
Knowing the difference between a will and a trust matters
In Tennessee, establishing an estate plan means that your wishes will be carried out after your death. Wills and trusts play a part in an estate plan but vary in several ways. Knowing the difference between these two estate-planning tools can ensure you choose the...
Is a life insurance trust right for everyone?
Most are familiar with life insurance, but many don't realize how much it can do for their financial security. One of the ways you can take advantage of life insurance in Tennessee is by setting up a life insurance trust. The trust is a legal document that spells out...
What is a dynasty trust and how does it work?
A dynasty trust can play an important role in estate planning. This trust gives you a reliable way to pass wealth from one Tennessee generation to the next. Here are some facts to help you decide if a dynasty trust is in your future. Purpose of a dynasty trust In the...
What you shouldn’t put in a will in Tennessee
A will is for outlining what you want others to do with your property after you die. Before you write a will, however, you must know what makes the document valid in Tennessee. There are certain stipulations that you can't make in a will. Joint property Joint property...
A guide to international estate planning in Tennessee
If you have property outside the U.S., are married to a non-citizen spouse or have cross-border families, you will need to ensure that your estate plan in Tennessee is tailored to your unique circumstances. Failure to do so could lead to your loved ones incurring...
The basics of wills, trusts and advanced directives
Estate planning is the process of organizing and managing your estate during your lifetime and after your death. There are many estate planning tools available under Tennessee law to help you achieve your goals, including advanced directives, wills and trusts. What...
Legal terms associated with estate planning
Anyone writing a will likely knows the purpose of the document. A will establishes someone's wishes regarding asset distribution, charitable donations, and other activities after the testator passes away. However, not everyone understands Tennessee estate law...
When do you need a trust deed?
The real estate market in Tennessee works by certain rules. Once you have gained knowledge of these rules, you can use them to your advantage. One of the most commonly misunderstood details of the process is known as a trust deed. This is a document that comes into...
3 important estate planning steps in Tennessee
Estate planning is something that everyone should do, regardless of their age or wealth. It is important to have a plan in place in case something happens to you and you are no longer able to make decisions for yourself. The question is, what goes into a good estate...
Contact The Firm
Costner & Greene Attorneys at Law
315 High Street
Maryville, TN 37804
Local: 865-238-4710