Estate Planning in Columbia, Tennessee
When most people hear "estate planning," they think it's something for the wealthy. It's not. If you own a home, have children, or want a say in what happens if you can't speak for yourself, you need an estate plan. It's one of the most important things you can do for the people you love — and it's simpler than most people expect.
At Muletown Law, we handle estate planning for families across Maury County and southern middle Tennessee. Our process starts with a conversation. We sit down with you, ask the right questions about your family, your property, and your goals, and then we build a plan that actually works for your situation — not a one-size-fits-all set of forms.
The process takes two short meetings. At the first, we sit down and talk through your family, your property, and your goals — that meeting usually takes about 30 minutes, and we'll have a clear plan by the time you leave. We then prepare your documents and schedule a second meeting for signing, where you'll review everything, ask any final questions, and sign with the proper witnesses and notarization — all handled in our office."
What's Included in an Estate Plan
A complete estate plan typically includes a Last Will and Testament, a Durable Power of Attorney, a Healthcare Power of Attorney, and an Advance Directive (Living Will). Together, these documents make sure that if something happens to you, the people you trust are empowered to act on your behalf — and your wishes are followed, not guessed at.
We also prepare revocable and irrevocable trusts when the situation calls for it, though we'll be honest with you about whether a trust is the right tool. Tennessee has no state estate tax and no gift tax, which means many families in our area are well-served by a carefully drafted will without the added complexity and cost of a trust. When a trust does make sense — for example, to protect assets for a child with special needs, to manage property for minor children, or to address a complex family situation — we'll explain why and build it right.
Why Estate Planning Matters in Tennessee
Tennessee law determines what happens to your property if you die without a will. That default plan may not match what you want. Without a will, your spouse may not inherit everything — Tennessee's intestacy statute divides property between your spouse and your children, which can create problems for a surviving spouse who needs access to the family home or savings. If you have minor children, the court will decide who raises them. If you become incapacitated without a power of attorney, your family may need a conservatorship proceeding just to pay your bills.
An estate plan puts you in control of these decisions while you're able to make them.
What to Expect
The process takes two short meetings. At the first, we sit down and talk through your family, your property, and your goals. Bring any existing documents you have — a prior will, deeds, insurance policies — and be ready to have an honest conversation about what matters most to you. That meeting usually takes about 30 minutes, and we'll have a clear plan by the time you leave.
We then prepare your documents and schedule a second meeting for signing. You'll review everything, ask any final questions, and sign your documents with the proper witnesses and notarization — all handled in our office.
We prepare estate plans for a flat fee. You'll know the cost at your first meeting, with no surprises.
Our Estate Planning Services
Last Will and Testaments
Revocable Living Trusts
Irrevocable Trusts
NFA Trusts
Powers of Attorney
Living Wills
Healthcare Directives
Business Succession Planning
Elder Law
We serve clients throughout southern middle Tennessee, including Maury, Marshall, Lewis, Lawrence, Hickman, Giles, and Williamson Counties.
Common Questions About Estate Planning in Tennessee
How much does an estate plan cost?
We charge a flat fee for estate plans. The cost depends on the complexity of your situation, but we'll tell you the price before we begin so there are no surprises.
Do I need a trust in Tennessee?
Most families in Tennessee don't need a trust. Because Tennessee has no state estate or gift tax, a well-drafted will, combined with powers of attorney and a healthcare directive, handles the job for the majority of our clients. We'll recommend a trust only when it genuinely makes sense for your situation.
How long does the process take?
The process takes two short meetings — one to discuss your plan (about 30 minutes) and a second to review and sign your documents. Most estate plans are completed within a week or two from start to finish.
What if I already have a will from years ago?
Bring it with you. We'll review it and let you know whether it still works or whether it needs updating. Life changes — marriage, divorce, new children, new property — can make an old will inadequate or even harmful.
What happens if I die without a will in Tennessee?
Tennessee's intestacy laws determine who inherits your property. Your spouse and children may share the estate in ways you didn't intend. The court will appoint someone to manage the process, and if you have minor children, the court will decide who raises them.