Estate Planning Attorney in Johnson City, Jonesborough, Erwin, TN and All of East Tennessee
Effective estate planning ensures that your assets, decisions, and loved ones are protected long after you're gone. At Lisa A. Witherspoon, Attorney At Law in Johnson City, TN, we provide comprehensive estate planning services designed to meet the needs of individuals, families, and aging adults. From drafting wills to establishing trusts and advance directives, we help our clients put their affairs in order with clarity and legal precision.
Wills: Laying the Foundation for Your Legacy
A will is the cornerstone of most estate plans. It allows you to direct how your assets should be distributed and who should manage your estate after your passing. Without a will, Tennessee’s intestate laws determine how your property is divided—often in ways that may not reflect your wishes. Important elements of a legally valid will:
Naming an Executor to Handle Your Estate
This person is responsible for carrying out the terms of your will, including settling debts, filing court paperwork, and distributing assets.
Directing How Personal and Financial Assets Are Passed on
You can specify everything from real estate and bank accounts to heirlooms and digital property.
Naming Guardians for Minor Children
If you have children under the age of 18, your will is where you legally identify the person you trust to care for them.
We help clients craft clear, enforceable wills that reduce the likelihood of disputes or complications during probate.
Advance Directives and Powers of Attorney
Estate planning isn’t only about what happens after death—it’s also about protecting your wishes if you become incapacitated. Tennessee law allows you to prepare legal documents that express your preferences for healthcare and financial decisions.
We Routinely Prepare These Documents:
- Healthcare power of attorney - This allows you to appoint someone to make medical decisions if you’re unable to do so.
- Living will (advance directive) - You can outline your preferences for end-of-life care, including resuscitation and life support.
- Durable power of attorney for finances - This document lets a trusted individual handle banking, property, and legal matters on your behalf during incapacity.
Properly drafted directives give peace of mind to both you and your loved ones. Lisa A. Witherspoon ensures each document reflects your values and is compliant with Tennessee requirements.
Estate Planning for Families, Seniors, and Blended Households
Every family is unique, and so is every estate plan. Whether you’re a young couple starting a family, a senior seeking asset protection, or part of a blended household with children from previous marriages, thoughtful planning is essential. Common planning goals we help address:
Providing for Minor or Dependent Children
Wills and trusts can be structured to manage inheritance until children reach an appropriate age.
Planning for Remarriage or Multiple Heirs
Blended families often require extra attention to ensure fairness and avoid future disputes.
By listening to your priorities and concerns, we tailor every plan to fit your personal circumstances.
Estate Planning Services in Johnson City, Erwin, and Elizabethton, TN
Our firm is proud to serve clients across Northeast Tennessee. Whether you need to create a full estate plan or update existing documents, we provide personalized service and in-depth legal knowledge. Our core service areas include:
Johnson City, TN
We work with individuals and families throughout Washington County, helping them prepare for the future with confidence.
Jonesborough, TN
Washington County residents turn to us for estate plans that address local legal considerations and family dynamics.
Erwin, TN
We also support clients in Unicoi County, offering will and trust preparation, probate guidance, and elder law services.
Our approach is thoughtful, attentive, and rooted in the belief that everyone deserves a secure, well-organized legacy.
