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What Is Estate Planning?

Focused, personal representation for Tennessee families and businesses, with offices in Nashville and Memphis.

Last Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Read Time: 3 mins

Estate planning refers to the development of instructions that dictate how your estate will be managed after you pass away. Having an estate plan will ensure that the state will follow your orders regarding how you want your assets distributed. If you have intended beneficiaries, naming them in your plan makes it much easier and faster for them to receive any inheritance that you pass down.

What should be included in an estate plan?

An estate plan contains important documents that provide information about your wishes for your estate as well as your preferences for the medical care that you will receive in the future. These documents include a will, living will, trust, and medical directives. Should an event occur that results in your incapacitation and inability to clearly communicate, your medical team and loved ones will refer to your estate plan.

What mistakes should I avoid?

Many people tend to put off working on their estate plan until a major life event or emergency happens. However, an estate plan should be developed well before you have to go through a sudden life event. It is better if you have it prepared and complete with the documents that you need. Another mistake that people make regarding estate planning is not consulting with their loved ones about their goals and preferences, such as concerning their medical needs.

Can I update my estate plan?

Once you have made an estate plan, you should not just finish it and never look at it again. Think of your estate plan as a living document that should be continuously updated. Review your plan periodically and make any necessary changes, such as after life events like marriage, death of a relative or the birth of a child. Your plan should always be current and contain the most up to date information and instructions.

Why should I hire an estate planning lawyer?

Managing your estate is a process that should be done earlier than later. Many people do not think that making an estate plan is necessary, but it offers a host of benefits, such as protecting your estate and ensuring your loved ones receive their inheritance. If you are at a loss at handling your estate and are not sure how to begin, a trusted and experienced estate planning lawyer in Memphis, TN, like one at Patterson Bray PLLC.

Hiring a lawyer to help you with your estate plan has many benefits. Developing an estate plan often takes a lot of time, and you need to have a strong understanding of estate laws so that you can make a suitable plan that meets the legal requirements. An estate plan lawyer can also suggest ways you can better secure your assets from the wrong hands and decrease your estate taxes.

A trusted estate plan lawyer like one from Patterson Bray PLLC can guide you through the estate planning process. Learn more by scheduling a consultation with a qualified lawyer to discuss your goals.

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Client Reviews

    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Nancy Wallace 
 1 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking to do estate planning, go with Patterson Bray! They are excellent to deal with!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cheryl Adkins 
 2 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We loved the staff at Patterson Bray.  Everyone was very professional.  Judith was very thorough and explained everything extremely well.  We would recommend Patterson Bray to anyone.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Hailey Wade 
 26 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC did an excellent job with my grandmother's estate planning, and made everything easy to understand! She recommended them to a friend who went and is also very satisfied with their services.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Deb Clark 
 31 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My experience with this firm, particularly Judith Denham has been truly exceptional.  From the consultation to the finish, the attention to detail, listening and responding to my needs.  My documents were completed timely and professionally.  I highly recommend Patterson Bray.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tanya White 
 31 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PattersonBray Estate Planning was an incredible firm to work with setting up our Trust. Judith Denham was thorough, very smart, and personable as she patiently explained each part.  Gabby put together  a very professional beautiful binder for us to have, and has answered questions we have had since  then. I am so glad they were recommended to us, and we had them to walk us through this procedure.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Charmaine Sego 
 32 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray did a great job with my mother's trust.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Phil Chamberlain 
 48 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Patterson Bray PLLC - first class lawyers.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Catherine McGee 
 68 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Heath Taylor was a genuine joy to work with during my divorce: straight forward, professional, and knowledgeable. I do hope I never have the need to acquire more legal help, but if I do, he'll be my first call. Thank you for everything, Heath!!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Marva Johnson 
 74 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I FOUND PATTERSON BRAY AND JUDITH DENHAM TO BE PROFESSIONAL, VERY THOROUGH, AND PERSONAL. I DID NOT FEEL LIKE A CLIENT, BUT A PERSON. I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THEM, ESPECIALLY JUDITH AND GABBY. VERY GRATEFUL FOR ASSISTANCE.
M.JOHNSON
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Pam Nicole 
 75 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We set up a trust with Judith, at Patterson Bray and we received excellent service. Everything was explained thoroughly and everyone was very friendly and professional. I would definitely use her and the firm again, if needed.

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What Is Estate Planning?

What should be included in an estate plan?

What mistakes should I avoid?

Can I update my estate plan?

Why should I hire an estate planning lawyer?

Patterson Bray

Blog & News

Legal Options After the Frayser Shooting

How do I ensure my child’s inheritance is protected from divorce?

How do I file a probate case in Tennessee?