In Tennessee, Who Gets My Children If I Pass Away Without a Will or Estate Plan?

Posted by Darren KennedyDec 27, 20240 Comments

If you pass away without a will in Tennessee, the court will determine who gets custody of your minor children. The court typically looks to:

  • The Surviving Parent: Custody usually goes to the surviving parent if they are deemed fit.
  • Other Family Members: If no parent is available, the court may appoint a close family member as a guardian, considering the child's best interests.

To ensure your wishes are honored, creating a will or estate plan is essential. We understand how important family is, and we're here to help create an estate plan customized to protect the ones you love most. By naming a guardian in your will, you can have peace of mind that your children will be cared for according to your preferences.