Probate is a court proceeding designed to distribute property and pay debts. In Sevier County, Tennessee, petitions for probate are filed with County Clerk and are heard by the Judges of General Sessions Court, exercising probate jurisdiction.
Many people are afraid that Probate proceedings will be difficult and costly. Most of this fear is encouraged by unscrupulous salesmen who want to sell over-priced trusts, which often costs more than what a simple Will would costs. These heavily marketed trusts do not have money in the long run.
The Probate procedure in Tennessee is streamlined and efficient. In most cases, a simple Last Will and Testament is by far the preferred method to provide the assurance that both real and personal property will be properly devised to surviving family members.