Patterson Bray PLLC

Does child support automatically stop when your child turns 18 in Tennessee?🎂

Not always! In Tennessee, child support typically continues until your child turns 18 OR graduates from high school with their class—whichever happens later.

Additionally, support may extend past 18 if the child has certain disabilities.

Have questions about your child support arrangement?

Contact Patterson Bray Attorneys today! 📞 (901) 372-5003

Can you and your ex simply agree to "waive" child support in Tennessee? Technically, no—an outright waiver is potentially void as a matter of public policy.

However, parents can agree to request a court deviation to set child support at $0. For this to work, you must present a valid legal basis, and the court must formally approve it. You can't just make an informal agreement between yourselves! ⚖️

Questions about child support guidelines or family law in Tennessee? Reach out to Patterson Bray Attorneys today! 📱 901-372-5003

What happens to a Trust when the Grantor dies?

When a revocable living trust owner passes away, the trust becomes irrevocable, meaning its terms are officially locked.

Here is what happens next and what the named successor trustee must handle:

• Asset Collection: The trustee is responsible for marshaling (collecting) all assets owned by or payable to the trust.

• Inventory & Security: Every trust asset must be inventoried and properly secured.

• Distribution: Assets are ultimately distributed to the named beneficiaries according to the exact terms of the trust agreement.

Serving as a successor trustee comes with serious legal responsibilities. If you need guidance navigating the trust administration process, send us a message or contact our office today to schedule a consultation.

📲 901-372-5003
🌐 PattersonBray.com

What is a Special Needs Trust (also known as a Supplemental Needs Trust or a SNT), and how can it protect your loved one’s future? 💡

A SNT allows a person with disabilities to receive income or assets without risking their eligibility for crucial government benefits.

In this video, we break down the two main types of SNTs:

🔹 First-Party SNT: Funded with the beneficiary’s own assets (subject to state recovery after death).

🔹 Third-Party SNT: Established and funded by a family member or third party (not subject to state recovery).

Planning for a loved one’s long-term security requires care and precision.

Reach out to Patterson Bray Attorneys today at 901-372-5003 to learn how we can help structure the right plan for your family.

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What happens if your ex refuses to pay child support? You have legal options to enforce the order.

Here are 3 ways the court can intervene:

1️⃣ Contempt of Court: If they have the ability to pay but refuse, the court can order incarceration until a purge payment is made.

2️⃣ Wage Garnishment: Support payments can be automatically deducted directly from their paycheck.

3️⃣ Bank Account / Asset Garnishment: Get a court judgment for past-due support to collect directly from bank accounts or third parties holding assets.

Don't navigate family law challenges alone. Contact Patterson Bray Attorneys today for dedicated guidance.

📞 901-372-5003
🌐 PattersonBray.com

How do you handle final income taxes for a loved one who has passed away? 📊👇

Here’s what executors and family members need to know:

1️⃣ Form 1040: Files income from Jan 1st to the date of death.

2️⃣ Form 1041: Files income generated after the date of death (if applicable).

3️⃣ First Step: Contact their prior tax preparer or CPA to get copies of past returns and transcripts!

Save this post for when you need it, and reach out to Patterson Bray Attorneys with any probate questions!

📲 901-372-5003
🌐 PattersonBray.com