Common Probate Mistakes And How Our Maryville TN Lawyer Can Help Avoid Them

When a loved one passes away, the legal steps that follow can be overwhelming. Even in the best of circumstances, probate can be unfamiliar territory for many families. Mistakes during this process can delay the distribution of assets, increase costs, and create unnecessary stress. That’s why it’s important to have the right guidance from the beginning.

At Carpenter & Lewis PLLC, we work closely with families and personal representatives throughout the probate process. Our goal is to make sure that everything is handled properly and that avoidable errors don’t get in the way of moving forward.

Filing Delays And Missed Deadlines

Timing is important in probate. One common issue we see is the delay in filing necessary documents with the court. Tennessee law sets deadlines for submitting the will, notifying interested parties, and managing estate-related tasks. If those deadlines are missed, it can lead to court penalties or even personal liability for the person handling the estate.

We help keep the process on track by reviewing deadlines, preparing the right paperwork, and making sure all required notices are sent out correctly and on time.

Misunderstanding The Duties Of The Personal Representative

The person appointed to handle the estate has specific legal responsibilities. These include gathering the assets, paying off debts, and distributing what’s left according to the will or state law. Problems can arise when someone takes actions without understanding what’s required or fails to keep proper records.

This is where clear direction matters. We work with personal representatives to walk through each step, explain what’s expected, and provide support so they’re not trying to figure it all out alone. This avoids situations where mistakes lead to disputes or problems in court.

Not Properly Valuing And Distributing Assets

Another issue that can slow down probate or result in conflict is incorrect handling of the estate’s property. Sometimes assets are overlooked, underreported, or distributed too early. If property is given away before debts or taxes are addressed, the representative may have to correct those actions later.

We help identify all estate property, make sure everything is accurately valued, and confirm what can legally be distributed and when. This helps protect the estate and the person responsible for managing it.

Overlooking Creditor Claims And Debts

During probate, part of the process includes allowing creditors to make claims. If this step is skipped or handled incorrectly, it can expose the estate—or even the representative—to legal consequences. It’s not just about paying bills, but about following the proper process.

We assist with identifying debts, managing the claim period, and resolving obligations in the correct order. This protects both the estate and the personal representative from unnecessary risk.

Taking The Right Steps Forward

Avoiding these common probate mistakes can save time, reduce stress, and prevent future disputes. With guidance from a trusted legal advisor, the process becomes more manageable and far less uncertain. If you’re looking for our Maryville, TN probate lawyer who can help you move through the process with clarity, we invite you to reach out to our team at Carpenter & Lewis PLLC. Let’s talk about how we can support you during this important time.