How to Avoid Challenges to Wills and Trusts
- Mitchell Lansky
- Mar 18
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 24

Trusted Guidance from The Lansky Law Firm
Planning your estate is one of the most meaningful ways to protect your family’s future. But without thoughtful structure and clear direction, even the best intentions can lead to confusion, conflict, and costly legal disputes.
At The Lansky Law Firm, we believe estate planning should bring clarity, confidence, and peace of mind—not uncertainty. Challenges to wills and trusts are more common than many families expect, but with the right planning approach, many of these issues can be avoided.
Strive for Fairness Among Family Members
Every family is unique, but one guiding principle that can help reduce disputes is fairness.
For many families, this means:
Keeping financial distributions as balanced as possible
Being thoughtful about how roles like executor or trustee are assigned
Avoiding situations where one family member feels overlooked or burdened
It is important to remember that fairness is not just about money—it is also about control. Naming one child to manage the estate can unintentionally create tension, even if the decision feels practical.
In some situations, The Lansky Law Firm may recommend appointing a neutral third party, such as a professional fiduciary, to help ensure decisions are handled objectively and without added family stress.
Recognize the Emotional Value of Personal Property
Some of the most meaningful items in your estate may not carry significant financial value—but they can hold deep emotional importance.
Family heirlooms, furniture, personal collections, photographs, and even digital assets like online accounts or cryptocurrency can become sources of disagreement if not clearly addressed.
Rather than leaving these decisions open-ended, consider:
Clearly identifying who should receive specific items
Putting those wishes in writing within your estate plan
Communicating your intentions with loved ones ahead of time
At The Lansky Law Firm, we help you thoughtfully organize both tangible and digital assets so nothing important is left uncertain.
Address Lifetime Gifts with Clarity
If you have provided financial support to one family member during your lifetime, it is important to reflect that in your estate plan.
For example, helping with a home purchase or other major expense can unintentionally create an imbalance if it is not properly documented.
Options may include:
Treating the gift as an advancement on inheritance
Keeping a written record of lifetime gifts
Adjusting future distributions to reflect prior support
By addressing these details now, The Lansky Law Firm helps ensure transparency and fairness, reducing the likelihood of misunderstandings later.
A Plan That Protects More Than Assets
A well-crafted estate plan does more than distribute property—it helps protect relationships, reduce stress, and provide clarity during difficult times.
At The Lansky Law Firm, we take a personalized, thoughtful approach to every plan, helping you create something that truly supports your family when it matters most.
Take the Next Step Toward Peace of Mind
If you want to ensure your estate plan is clear, balanced, and built to avoid unnecessary challenges, we are here to help.
Visit Us: 6800 Poplar Ave #225Memphis, TN 38138
Call Us: (901) 767-7006
Learn More: www.lanskylawfirm.com
Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward a plan that protects your wishes and gives your family lasting confidence for the future.
