by Tawnya Gilreath

3 Reasons You Want to Avoid Probate

The Law Office of Tawnya Gilreath

When you pass away, your family may need to visit a probate court in order to claim their inheritance. This can happen if you own property (like a house, car, bank account, investment account, or other asset) in only your name. Although having a will is a good basic form of planning, a will does not avoid probate. Instead, a will simply lets you inform the probate court of your wishes – your family still has to go through the probate process to make those wishes legal.

Here are 3 key reasons why you want to avoid probate. Read More

by Tawnya Gilreath

One Call You Must Make After You Buy a Home That You’ve Probably Forgotten

The Law Office of Tawnya Gilreath

Now that you have finalized the purchase of your new home, there is one more expert you need to call: your estate planning attorney. Your attorney can help you review the new documents associated with your home purchase in conjunction with your existing estate plan to ensure that everything aligns and works towards your overall estate planning objectives. Read More

by Tawnya Gilreath

Do I Really Need a Will?

Estate and Business

A will puts you in charge of directing others on your wishes and distribution of assets upon your death. Without a will or other estate plan – referred to as intestacy – you have no control and your state’s rules determine who gets what after your death. Even if you have a trust, jointly owned property, or have named beneficiaries on your insurance, a will is important, even as just a “backup” plan. Read More

by Tawnya Gilreath

5 Essential Legal Documents You Need in Case You Become Incapacitated

Estate and Business

Comprehensive estate planning is more than your legacy after death, avoiding probate, and saving on taxes. Good estate planning includes a plan in place to manage your affairs if you become incapacitated during your life and can no longer make decisions for yourself. Without a comprehensive incapacity plan in place, your family will have to go to court to get a judge to appoint a guardian or conservator to take control of your assets and health care decisions. Read More

by Tawnya Gilreath

Your Estate Plan is About More than Your Money

Estate and Business

Money is often the most talked about wealth contained within a person’s estate, however the riches of their experience and wisdom can mean even more to family members. Reinforcement of family traditions can be built into your estate plan alongside your wishes regarding your money, property, and belongings. 

There are several ways that you can tell your story though your estate plan and pass your values to the next generation.
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