BERNSTEIN, STAIR & McADAMS LLP
Probate & Estate Administration
Areas of Practice
Probate & Estate Administration
Trusted Guidance for Families Navigating the Probate Process
Our Knoxville probate and estate administration attorneys assist individuals and families throughout Knoxville, Knox County, and surrounding East Tennessee communities as they navigate the legal responsibilities that follow the loss of a loved one.
The probate process often comes at an emotionally difficult time, when family members are faced with unfamiliar legal obligations while grieving. Our attorneys provide clear guidance, steady support, and practical advice to help clients manage estate matters efficiently and with confidence.
We guide clients through every stage of the probate and estate administration process, from opening the estate and qualifying the personal representative to resolving creditor claims, distributing assets, and closing the estate. Our approach emphasizes clarity, compliance with court requirements, and careful attention to detail, allowing families to focus on honoring their loved one’s legacy.
Who We Represent
Our probate and estate administration practice serves:
- Executors and personal representatives
- Family members administering estates
- Beneficiaries and heirs
- Individuals appointed by the court to manage estate affairs
Probate & Estate Administration Matters We Handle
- Opening probate estates
- Qualifying personal representatives and executors
- Advising on fiduciary duties and responsibilities
- Addressing creditor claims against the estate
- Estate asset inventory and administration
- Distribution and retitling of estate property
- Closing probate estates
- Court filings and compliance matters
Compassionate Support Through a Structured Legal Process
While probate is a legal process governed by court procedures and deadlines, it also involves sensitive family dynamics and emotional considerations. Our attorneys strive to provide both legal clarity and thoughtful guidance, helping clients understand each step of the process and their responsibilities as estate representatives.
When probate matters involve disputes or litigation, our probate attorneys coordinate closely with our civil litigation team to ensure consistent and effective representation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is probate?
Probate is the court-supervised process of administering a deceased person’s estate, which may include validating a will, appointing a personal representative, paying debts, and distributing assets.
Do you help clients who have been appointed as personal representatives?
Yes. We regularly advise and represent executors and personal representatives, guiding them through their duties and responsibilities under Tennessee law.
How long does the probate process take?
The length of probate varies depending on the size and complexity of the estate, creditor issues, and court requirements. Our attorneys help clients understand expected timelines and obligations.
Do you assist with creditor claims against an estate?
Yes. We advise personal representatives on handling creditor claims, including notice requirements and claim resolution.
Meet Our Probate Team
W. Tyler Chastain
Partner
L. Caesar Stair IV
Partner
Matthew T. McDonald
Partner
Amanda M. Busby
Of Counsel
Charles H. Child
Of Counsel
Sloane R. Davis
Associate Attorney
Hudson A. Chastain
Associate Attorney
