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Top Documents An Estate Planning Lawyer Can Help You Create

September 10, 2025

Estate Planning Lawyer Maryville, TN

Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are honored after you’re gone. While many people think estate planning is only about writing a will, the truth is that a comprehensive estate plan includes several key documents. Our Maryville, TN estate planning lawyer can guide you through the process, tailoring each document to your personal, financial, and family circumstances. Here are the top documents an estate planning lawyer can help you create.

1. Last Will And Testament

The will is the foundation of most estate plans. It allows you to:

  • Specify how your assets should be distributed.
  • Name an executor to manage your estate.
  • Appoint guardians for minor children.

Without a valid will, state laws (called intestacy laws) determine how your assets are distributed—often in ways that may not reflect your wishes. Our lawyer ensures your will complies with state law and avoids common mistakes that could invalidate it.

2. Trusts

Trusts are powerful tools that go beyond the basics of a will. Our estate planning lawyer can help you establish different types of trusts, such as:

  • Revocable Living Trusts, which allow you to manage your assets during your lifetime and pass them to beneficiaries without going through probate.
  • Irrevocable Trusts, which can provide tax benefits and asset protection.
  • Special Needs Trusts, designed to support loved ones with disabilities without jeopardizing their government benefits.

Trusts offer privacy, flexibility, and control, making them a critical part of many estate plans.

3. Durable Power Of Attorney

A durable power of attorney authorizes someone you trust to handle your financial affairs if you become incapacitated. This person can manage tasks such as paying bills, managing investments, or even selling property. Without this document, your loved ones may need to go through a court process to gain the authority to act on your behalf. Our lawyer can draft a power of attorney tailored to your needs and state requirements.

4. Advance Healthcare Directive (Living Will)

An advance healthcare directive outlines your wishes for medical treatment if you cannot speak for yourself. It can address issues such as life support, resuscitation, and other critical care decisions. By creating this document with the help of our lawyer, you provide clear guidance to your family and medical providers, preventing confusion and stress during difficult times.

5. HIPAA Authorization

Many people overlook this document, but it’s essential. A HIPAA authorization allows designated individuals to access your medical records and speak with healthcare providers about your condition. Without it, even close family members may be left in the dark about your care.

Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to protect their family and control what happens to their assets and healthcare decisions. Our estate planning lawyer helps you create the right documents, ensures they comply with the law, and keeps them updated as your life changes. By putting these essential pieces in place, you can achieve peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored and your loved ones will be cared for. At Carpenter & Lewis PLLC, we are here to help.