Terry Turnipseed

Drafting a will is one of the most critical steps in ensuring your assets and wishes are handled according to your desires after passing. However, many people make mistakes during the process, leading to confusion, legal disputes, or unintended consequences. Understanding these common mistakes can help you create a will that is clear, enforceable, and reflective of your true intentions. Below are some of people's most frequent errors when drafting their will. Not Updating Your Will Regularly One of the biggest mistakes people make when drafting a will is updating it regularly. Life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of children, or the acquisition of significant assets may change your priorities or how you want your estate divided. If you don’t review and amend your will after these events, it could lead to confusion about your intentions or a distribution that no longer reflects your wishes. For example, if you get married and forget to update your will, your spouse may ...

Probate is the legal process that happens after someone passes away. It involves validating a deceased person's will, paying debts , and distributing the remaining assets to heirs. However, probate can be lengthy, costly, and public. To avoid the potential headaches and stress associated with probate, estate planning is key. By taking proactive steps, you can ensure your estate is settled according to your wishes and that your loved ones are protected. Here are essential tips to help you navigate estate planning with ease. Create a Comprehensive Will A will is a legal document that outlines how you want your assets distributed after your death. Without a will, your estate will be divided according to state law, which might not align with your wishes. Your will should designate beneficiaries, specify how assets like your home, investments, and personal belongings should be divided, and name an executor to manage the estate. To make the process smoother, be clear and detailed about y...

Terry Turnipseed 's career path took an unconventional turn as he transitioned from academia to the world of estate planning. For 18 years, Turnipseed served as a Professor of Law, Engineering, and Computer Science, shaping the minds of the next generation of professionals. His role as an educator was not limited to the classroom; he was deeply committed to instilling not only knowledge but also the values of professionalism, integrity, and dedication. These principles guided him throughout his career and set the stage for his next endeavor, where he would apply his academic rigor to a new arena – wealth management and estate planning. After leaving academia, Terry made a seamless transition into the financial sector, joining Neil Jesani Advisors. There, he applied the same level of diligence and care he had honed as a professor, helping high-net-worth clients navigate complex estate planning and asset protection strategies. His expertise in these areas, combined with his ability t...