Wills in Eastview

Start with the asset, then check the instruction

For each significant asset, ask two separate questions: What does the will direct, and what ownership or beneficiary information is attached to the asset? A will may name the person you want to handle estate matters and describe intended distributions. Ownership records and beneficiary designations are separate information to review; do not assume they say the same thing as the will.

For example, if a will names one person to receive an asset but a related account record names someone else, flag the difference for review. The comparison identifies a question to resolve; it does not, by itself, determine which instruction applies or what legal process is required.

Build a will-and-assets comparison

A one-page inventory is a practical starting point. List each asset, where its current record can be found, how it is owned or titled, whether a beneficiary is named, and the relevant will instruction. Mark missing or uncertain information rather than filling gaps from memory. Include property records, account or policy beneficiary information, and any existing estate-planning documents that may relate to the same asset.

This comparison helps distinguish an instruction in a will from a trust term, beneficiary designation, or authority granted to someone under a power of attorney. These documents and roles are not interchangeable. A power of attorney authorizes an agent to act on someone’s behalf, and its scope, duration, and limits matter. It does not make the agent the person named to handle matters under a will.

• For each item, record the document or statement reviewed and its date, if known.
• List the people named in the will and separately note trustees, agents, and beneficiaries named in other records.
• Mark inconsistencies, outdated information, and questions for discussion.

Use McNairy County record contacts carefully

If your comparison includes real property, the University of Tennessee County Technical Assistance Service lists a separate Register of Deeds contact for McNairy County at 170 West Court Ave, Room 105, Selmer, Tennessee 38375. Confirm current contact and visiting information before relying on the address. A directory entry or recorded document does not determine ownership, guarantee clear title, or establish which transfer or court procedure is appropriate.

CTAS also lists county court-office contacts, including a Clerk & Master and a separate Circuit Court Clerk. Those offices are not interchangeable, and the listings alone do not establish the correct legal venue, required filing, or whether a proceeding is necessary.

Questions to bring to a will-planning discussion

Dale Law Group, PLLC offers wills, pour-over wills, trusts, powers of attorney, advance healthcare directives, and probate and trust administration services. For a will-focused discussion, bring your comparison and ask: Which instructions belong in the will, and which assets need separate ownership or beneficiary information reviewed? Who should be named to handle estate matters, and are their intended roles distinct from trustee or agent roles? What records or inconsistencies need follow-up before the plan is finalized?