What To Bring To Your First Appointment With A Will Lawyer

Meeting with a Maryville, TN wills lawyer for the first time is an important step toward securing your family’s future and ensuring your wishes are honored. At Carpenter & Lewis PLLC, we want to make the process as smooth and productive as possible. Preparing for your appointment by gathering the right information and documents is key to helping us create a comprehensive and accurate will for .

Here’s a guide to what you should bring to your first appointment with us.

1. A List Of Your Assets

One of the first things we’ll ask about is your assets. To draft a will, we need to know what you own and how you’d like it distributed. This includes:

Real Estate: Properties you own, including your primary home, vacation homes, or rental properties.
Financial Accounts: Bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement accounts (like IRAs or 401(k)s), and any other financial holdings.
Personal Property: High-value items like jewelry, art, vehicles, or collectibles.
Business Interests: Any ownership or partnerships in businesses.

Having a detailed list of these assets, including their approximate value, helps us craft a will that reflects your intentions.

2. Beneficiary Information

Think about who you want to inherit your assets. Bring a list of potential beneficiaries, including their names, relationships to you, and current contact information. These could include family members, friends, or charitable organizations.

We’ll also discuss alternate beneficiaries in case your primary choices are unable to inherit.

3. Guardianship Preferences

If you have minor children, deciding who will care for them if something happens to you is crucial. Consider who you trust to take on this responsibility, and bring their contact information to your appointment.

We’ll help you formalize this decision in your will to ensure your children are cared for according to your wishes.

4. Executor And Trustee Details

The executor of your will is the person responsible for carrying out your instructions. If you’re setting up a trust, you’ll also need to choose a trustee.

Bring the names and contact information of people you trust to handle these roles. We’ll help you evaluate their suitability and guide you in making informed decisions.

5. Copies Of Existing Legal Documents

If you already have a will, trust, or other estate planning documents, bring copies with you. Reviewing these documents gives us insight into your current plan and helps us identify areas that need updating or improvement.

6. Questions And Concerns

Your first appointment is the perfect time to ask questions and address any concerns. Whether it’s about legal terms, tax implications, or protecting your family’s future, we’re here to provide clarity.

Preparing for your first appointment with a will lawyer ensures that we can hit the ground running and create a will that reflects your wishes. By gathering the necessary documents and thinking through key decisions, you’re taking a proactive step toward peace of mind.

Contact us today to schedule your consultation. We look forward to helping you secure your legacy and protect the people you care about most.

What To Bring To Your First Appointment With A Will Lawyer