Probate Law

When estate plan disputes go to court, it’s often due to unclear language, competing beneficiary interests, or excluded heirs. This article explores the key reasons such conflicts escalate into legal battles—and what you can do to avoid them.

Many of us will need additional care as we age, so a competent estate planning attorney will strongly encourage you to prepare for your future.

The main consideration is whether there are assets titled solely in the deceased's name. If so, an estate likely needs to be opened.

Learn how to handle probate when a loved one leaves behind only real estate with attorney Curt Runger.

Learn about legal standing for filing a will contest in Tennessee. Discover who can challenge a will and why having skilled legal counsel is crucial for navigating complex probate disputes with an attorney.

Curt Runger of Memphis law firm Douglass & Runger answers the question of if a minor can receive an inheritance in Tennessee?

Will contests are expensive and should only be pursued if a significant amount of money is at stake and you truly believe that the testator’s intent isn’t being honored.

Learn the essential duties of a personal representative aka an Executor or Administrator in probate, from managing assets to notifying creditors.

Curt Runger of Memphis law firm Douglass & Runger explains legal bases for a will contest.

Learn about the probate inventory process, including what it is, why it’s important, and when you might not need to file one. Get expert advice on managing and filing a probate inventory with attorney Curt Runger.

Wondering if you should pay a loved one’s bills after they pass away? Learn why it’s usually better to let probate court handle it.

A will contest is a legal challenge to the validity of a will. These disputes often arise when an heir or beneficiary believes the will does not accurately reflect the deceased's intentions or was executed under questionable circumstances.

Will preparation ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones aren’t left with uncertainty or legal headaches. It’s a simple way to provide clarity and peace of mind for the future.

Without proper legal guidance, Trust disputes can escalate quickly, leading to emotional stress, financial loss, and strained family relationships. Trust Litigation ensures that these conflicts are handled fairly and according to the law.

When a loved one passes away with a Will, it must go through probate to be legally recognized. This process ensures their assets are distributed according to their wishes, debts are paid, and the estate is settled properly.

Trust administration involves managing the assets within the Trust, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries according to the terms set by the grantor.

When a loved one passes away without a Will, the estate enters into a legal process known as intestate estate administration.

Guardianship is about ensuring the future care of your loved one. Douglass & Runger helps you navigate the legal process with clarity and compassion.

Learn how to open an estate with guidance from Douglass & Runger. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your probate needs.

Probate is a legal and financial process that takes place after someone dies, and involves managing their estate. This includes organizing their assets, money, and possessions, and distributing them as inheritance to their beneficiaries after paying any debts and taxes.