FAQs
Farrar Holliman & Medley
Do I need a will?
Yes, having a will is highly recommended to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing.Do you offer free consultations?
Yes, we provide complimentary initial consultations to discuss your legal needs and how we can assist you.Do I need to probate the estate?
Potentially. Our legal team can evaluate your specific situation and guide you through the necessary steps in the probate process.Can my spouse make a medical decision for me without a power of attorney?
No, without a properly executed power of attorney document, your spouse does not automatically have the legal authority to make medical decisions on your behalf.How long does the Social Security Disability application process typically take?
The Social Security Disability application process typically takes 3-5 months for an initial decision. However, if your application is denied and requires appeals, the entire process can take 1-2 years or longer. At Farrar Holliman & Medley, we work to expedite your case where possible and provide guidance throughout this lengthy process to help secure the benefits you deserve.What medical conditions qualify for Social Security Disability benefits?
The Social Security Administration maintains a Listing of Impairments that automatically qualify for benefits, including certain heart conditions, neurological disorders, mental health conditions, and musculoskeletal problems. However, even if your condition isn't specifically listed, you may still qualify if your medical condition prevents you from working. Our attorneys at Farrar Holliman & Medley can evaluate your situation and help determine if your condition meets the SSA's definition of disability.Why was my Social Security Disability application denied?
Applications are commonly denied for reasons including insufficient medical evidence, failure to follow prescribed treatments, income exceeding allowable limits, or incomplete paperwork. Many deserving applicants receive initial denials - in fact, approximately 65% of initial applications are denied. At Farrar Holliman & Medley, we can review your denial, identify the issues, and help strengthen your case for the appeals process to improve your chances of approval.How long does the probate process typically take in Tennessee?
The probate process in Tennessee typically takes between 6 months to a year for straightforward estates, though complex estates or those with disputes can take significantly longer. Factors affecting the timeline include estate size, asset complexity, creditor claims, tax issues, and whether any beneficiaries contest the will. At Farrar Holliman & Medley, our 40+ years of experience helps streamline this process while ensuring all legal requirements are properly fulfilled.What happens if someone dies without a will in McMinnville, TN?
When someone dies without a will (intestate) in McMinnville, TN, Tennessee state law determines how their assets are distributed. Typically, assets pass to the closest relatives according to a specific hierarchy: spouse, children, parents, siblings, and so on. This process still requires probate court supervision. Farrar Holliman & Medley can guide surviving family members through intestate succession, helping to navigate the court system and ensure proper asset distribution according to Tennessee law.What are the executor's responsibilities during probate?
An executor has numerous legal responsibilities during probate, including inventorying all estate assets, notifying creditors, paying valid debts and taxes, distributing remaining assets to beneficiaries, and providing accountings to the court. This role carries personal liability if duties aren't properly fulfilled. Our attorneys at Farrar Holliman & Medley provide executors with comprehensive guidance, helping them understand their obligations, meet court deadlines, properly document all transactions, and minimize their personal liability throughout the probate process.



