1. Are your documents secure? It is critical that your important legal documents be kept secure in a weatherproof safe or container. Likewise, documents regarding property ownership and identity should be stored away from exposure to dangerous elements such as fire, floods, and wind. When the dust settles, you will need your important paperwork to help get you through difficult times.
2. Are your documents up to date? One unfortunate but common mistake is the failure to keep important estate planning documents current. People often forget to periodically review and update their documents after receiving them. As a result, outdated estate planning documents frequently cause confusion because they describe a situation that is no longer applicable.
3. Do people know where to find your documents? Making your important documents accessible is crucial. Having plans in place are of little value if no one can find them. There are a number of ways you can provide accessibility without significantly impacting security. A simple option is to keep the original documents in your home in a location you have disclosed to another family member, and keep a copy of the documents at a location other than your home in case your home is inaccessible. You can also utilize technology and have digital copies available regardless of where you may be.
4. Is your insurance adequate and current? Insurance is a tool that must be monitored and maintained as your family and wealth change. Review your insurance policy to make sure it adequately covers you, your family, and your possessions in the event of a crisis. If you have previously witnessed natural disasters or emergencies, these experiences can provide valuable insight to help you ensure that your policies will protect you against the recurrence of these events.
5. Should you have a rider on your existing insurance policy? Insurance riders provide additional flexibility and features to your current insurance policy with options that provide various levels of value depending upon your lifestyle and needs. For example, many policies offer a “waiver of premium” rider that creates a mechanism for continued payment of insurance premiums in the event you become disabled and are no longer able to make the payments. This means that your insurance coverage will not lapse due to your disability. There are other insurance riders, like the accidental death rider that applies if you die as a result of an accident. Most deaths and unpredictable events do not fall under the category of an accident, however, thus rendering this particular rider unprofitable in most instances. Either way, exploring the available rider options can ensure that you have customized a plan into something that works for you and your unique situation.

Disasters and emergencies are inevitable, but we can better position ourselves to remain calm in the midst of crisis if we plan ahead. When reviewing these questions, remember that you are not alone. The Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier is ready to assist you and can work with your trusted advisors to ensure that your important documents are up to date and best reflect your needs and wants. Give us a call today. We can schedule an appointment to discuss ways that we can help support you and your family to protect the people, possessions, and values that mean the most to you.

My dad, like many fathers, played a crucial role in shaping my understanding of developing a successful career. Wrapped throughout these lessons was the importance of serving others and treating clients well. Dad taught me a variety of strategies to instill these values, hoping and praying that one day I would be prepared for the professional world.

Leading by Example

Dad taught me that actions speak louder than words. He modeled a strong work ethic, dedication, and integrity in his career. I saw his commitment to his work and passion for his profession. This real-life demonstration of hard work and perseverance was more impactful than any advice he could have shared by simply talking alone.

Encouraging Open Communication

Open and honest communication was key. Dad fostered an environment where my siblings and I felt comfortable discussing our interests, goals, and concerns as we learned and grew with clarity and confidence. These conversations covered a wide range of topics, from the practical aspects of different professions to the personal fulfillment they can bring. By listening actively and providing thoughtful feedback, Dad guided us toward making informed decisions.

Providing Exposure to Various Careers

Exposure to different careers was essential to understanding our options. My father arranged for me to spend time with other adults, engage in job shadowing, and have detailed conversations about career opportunities. This experience helped me grasp the day-to-day realities of various professions, giving me a clearer idea of what might suit my interests and skills.

Supportive Encouragement

Supporting children in pursuing their passions is another hallmark of a good father. Whether my interests aligned with my dad’s own career or ventured into an entirely new field, Dad provided encouragement and resources. This support made me feel confident and empowered to follow my dreams, knowing I had a strong backing.

Teaching Practical Skills

Practical skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and financial literacy are essential in any career. Dad taught these skills through everyday activities and repetitive learning opportunities. I didn’t always appreciate these lessons in the moment, but I seem to recall those lessons time and time again (and, of course, repeating them to my own sons).

Networking and Mentorship

Dad introduced me to mentors and taught me that professional networks can significantly impact my career development. He encouraged me to leverage my connections to provide guidance and opportunities. Networking events, informational interviews, and mentorship relationships can offer invaluable insights and open doors to future career paths.

Emphasizing Education and Lifelong Learning

Dad emphasized the importance of education and continuous learning. He encouraged me to excel academically and pursue further education when needed. Moreover, he instilled a mindset of lifelong learning, teaching that growth and development don’t stop after formal education but continue throughout one’s career.

Setting Realistic Expectations

Preparing children for the realities of the workforce is crucial. Dad set realistic expectations about the challenges and setbacks I would face. By being open about his experiences and obstacles, he helped me develop a resilient and problem-solving mindset, which is vital for long-term success.

Encouraging Independence

For better or worse, Dad allowed me to make my own decisions and learn from my mistakes. He provided guidance while avoiding micromanaging, letting me take ownership of my career choices and navigate life paths.

Demonstrating Client Service Excellence

Finally, teaching the importance of serving clients well is a critical lesson. Dad exemplified excellent client service through his actions, showing respect, empathy, and dedication to meeting others’ needs. He shared stories about his experiences that highlighted the significance of building strong, trustworthy relationships with others. By understanding the value of client satisfaction, I learned that success in any career is not just about my own individual achievements but also about contributing positively to others.

Closing Thoughts

I am blessed on so many levels. My dad has always been present in my life, which I know firsthand is not the case for everyone. I am so grateful for my dad and the sacrifices he made throughout his life for our family. I also know, both as a father myself and by watching him, that these sacrifices bless our own souls as well. I don’t believe anyone looks back on a job well done and regrets having pursued its completion.

Thank you, Dad, for being such a large part of the person I am today. I am truly blessed, and I’m glad that my sons have you in their lives as well. Happy Father’s Day!

My time in the Ranger Battalion instilled in me the mental and physical fortitude required to succeed in challenging environments. This same toughness was crucial during my law school years and continues to play a vital role in my legal practice. Each day, I apply the discipline and tenacity learned from my Ranger training to navigate complex tax issues and deliver clear, effective solutions to my clients.

In the field, Rangers learn to confront problems head-on with honesty and courage, a practice that translates directly to how I handle tax resolution. It is crucial to acknowledge the root causes of tax issues frankly so that we can address them effectively. My approach involves providing clients with a candid assessment of their situation, helping them understand how their actions may have contributed to their tax problems, and advising them on corrective measures to prevent future complications.

Integrity is the cornerstone of both military service and legal practice. In my firm, we prioritize the client’s best interests over all else. This means I do not shy away from advising against a course of action if it does not benefit the client, ensuring our solutions are both ethical and effective. Our commitment is to offer relief and clarity to those facing daunting battles with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), not to capitalize on their vulnerability.

Our tax resolution process mirrors the meticulous planning and execution taught in Ranger training. We begin by gathering comprehensive details about each client’s circumstances and communicating with the IRS to understand their perspective. With all the information in hand, we craft a strategic plan of action, thoroughly discuss the options with our clients, and, once agreed upon, execute the plan with precision. We stay the course, adjusting as necessary until we reach a resolution.

As we honor the Army on its special day, I am proud to say that the values learned in the 3rd Battalion of the 75th Ranger Regiment continue to illuminate my path. At our firm, “Rangers Lead the Way” in tax resolution by setting the standard for integrity, diligence, and client-focused service. If you are facing tax issues and need guidance you can trust, we are here to lead the way to resolution.

Give us a call today.

In a recent Q&A session with the Better Business Bureau, Charles provided the following responses.

What does Black History Month mean to you?
“Black History Month is a profound observance that honors the immense contributions of African Americans to our society. It serves as a yearly beacon of the strides made by Black individuals despite significant barriers to equality. This month is not just a period of reflection on our nation’s complex history of racial injustice; it’s also a call to action, urging us to progress towards the ideals of justice and liberty for all. Black History Month offers a moment for everyone to contemplate their role in transforming the ideals of America from mere aspirations into tangible realities.”

Who is your Black history hero?
“In the tapestry of Black history heroes, two figures stand out to me. My personal hero is my great-grandfather, Jessie Pugh. Despite his modest stature, he was a towering influence in my life, teaching me the value of working smart while working hard, the importance of not judging everyone based on the actions of some, and the principle of doing good by doing well. On a broader scale, my famous Black history hero is Thurgood Marshall. He used education (the great equalizer) to propel himself to the highest court in the land, which is nothing short of inspirational. Marshall harnessed his legal expertise as a force for good, tirelessly working to ensure future generations of African Americans could access quality education in diverse environments.”

In the heartland of Rutherford County, Tennessee, a remarkable initiative is quietly shaping the trajectory of local leadership. The development of leaders through programs such as Leadership Rutherford has become a transformative force, empowering individuals to become catalysts for positive change in their communities. Through immersive experiences, workshops, and networking opportunities, emerging leaders are equipped with the tools to educate others about all Rutherford County has to offer.

I applied to the Leadership Rutherford program hoping to learn more about the place I call home. I anticipated meeting new people, growing my network, and getting business referrals from other class members. I grossly underestimated the value of my Leadership Rutherford experience. I learned more about Rutherford County than I would have learned in the next few decades. But more than that, I learned that I have the potential to be a more impactful leader in our community.

The revelation that I’d been sandbagging on my leadership potential is important because I suspect other leaders in our community need to understand that it’s okay to let their leadership lights shine. I’m naturally humble, so I’m apprehensive about highlighting my successes. However, Leadership Rutherford helped me understand that my humility robs me of a measure of confidence necessary to be an effective leader in my community. A program leader was kidding me when she commented that she was a big deal. Her comment did not strike me as braggadocious or arrogant. Instead, I immediately thought she was confident, and I attributed her leadership skills to her willingness to let her light shine in our community.

I believe Leadership Rutherford cultivates a sense of purpose and confidence in local leaders, which in turn inspires community engagement. When leaders continually enhance their own abilities, they become beacons of inspiration, motivating others to take an active role in shaping their destinies. Through personal growth, leaders model the importance of lifelong learning, adaptability, and resilience, igniting a spirit of progress among their fellow community members.

Rutherford County Chamber’s investment in the personal development of local leaders is not just an act of goodwill; it is an investment in the future of our communities. Leadership Rutherford provides potential leaders with the resources and opportunities to grow. The program creates a dynamic ecosystem where leaders flourish, progress is sustained, and collective aspirations are realized. As we celebrate the graduation of Leadership Rutherford’s Class of 2023, let us not forget the immeasurable impact that local leaders have on our daily lives. Their personal development is an essential ingredient in the recipe for a prosperous and harmonious society. So, encourage leaders in your life to cultivate their potential and watch as our communities thrive and our collective dreams come true.

According to the program’s website, Leadership Rutherford’s aim is to “help leaders prepare for voluntary responsibility, provide a practical and sophisticated understanding of major problems and opportunities facing Rutherford County and facilitate access and improve the communications network between emerging and current leaders, and stimulate increased community participation and commitment.”

“This opportunity to contribute to my community and learn how to become a better leader is priceless for me,” said Frazier, who has managed his own private law practice in Rutherford County since 2009. “I’m excited about the chance to make connections with people in Rutherford County who can show me innovative ways of doing things at my firm and community organizations that I might have never thought about.”

The Leadership Rutherford program’s Council selects participants for the annual class through an application process. Candidates are reviewed and selected on their own merits, and are evaluated on a broad range of factors, including, but not limited to:

• Commitment to community and volunteering through past and present activities
• Demonstrated leadership within their organization and/or community and past leadership activities
• Desire to engage, connect with, and learn from cross-sector leaders with different perspectives
• Motivated and interested in serving Rutherford County
• Possess potential or existing opportunities for advancement to leadership positions within their own organizations, which in turn may play a significant role in the community
• Being a resident of Rutherford County for a minimum of one continuous year, have at least two years of full-time employment experience, and be 25 years of age or older.

The program launches this month, August 2022, and concludes June 2023. The full list of class members can be found on the Rutherford County website www.rutherfordchamber.org/leadership-rutherford.html

###

About the Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier

The Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier provide legal counsel to individuals and businesses, and focuses on tax law and estate planning. The firm handles tax collections and tax audit matters before the IRS or Tennessee Department of Revenue, as well as tax planning and compliance. The firm’s estate planning practice helps guide clients through the process of obtaining wills, living wills, powers of attorneys and completing other estate planning matters. Since 2009, The Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier has saved its clients millions of dollars in taxes; given customers the peace of mind that comes with a thoughtful estate plan; and settled countless difficult probate estates.

“I am honored and excited to join the team at the Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier, and I’m looking forward to contributing my experience and expertise to the firm. I believe the additional service offerings will help expand the highly-successful brand that Charles has built over the years to new markets as well as provide existing clients with the convenience of having their tax matters streamlined at one company.”

The Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier has offered nationwide tax controversy services since opening its doors in 2009 and has helped countless business owners and entrepreneurs avoid or resolve problems with the IRS or Department of Revenue. Stopping IRS collections, assisting clients with tax audits, and creating installment agreements are a few of the existing tax services that previously existed at the firm.

“Rick’s addition to our team significantly expands our service offerings for our tax clients. Tax compliance cases such as delinquent return preparation as well as tax planning advisory services can now be seamlessly handled in-house by our team. Thus, our clients will have enhanced continuity to address all their tax needs,” said firm principal Charles R. Frazier.

“With Rick joining the Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier, we’ll be a tax planning, compliance, and controversy one-stop solution. Our tax planning services will help our individual and business clients to look ahead at areas where they can save money and optimize their company operations. With tax controversy, we will promptly resolve any tax issues that may have occurred while conducting business.”

Please join us in welcoming Rick to the team.

The firm’s practice areas are tax law, business law, and estate planning. Since opening its doors in 2009, the firm has achieved many significant accomplishments such as: saving clients millions of dollars in taxes; giving individuals the peace of mind that comes with a thoughtful estate plan; settling difficult probate estates; and resolving complex business issues.

“We are grateful for all our clients and supporters who have contributed to our success over the years,” owner and Principal Attorney Charles R. Frazier said.

The Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier is maintaining a year-over-year 12% growth in revenue, and the firm’s clients consistently provide 5-star ratings for the firm’s customer service.

“We believe this growth is a testament to the fact that our business model is one that is sustainable, affordable and appealing to our client base,” Frazier said.

“Of all our accomplishments, our team is most proud of being able to provide an exceptionally high level of customer service. Our goal is to always remain focused on people: first on our clients and then on employees of the firm.”

The firm is commemorating its anniversary with a year-long celebration, with special events and campaigns: including a custom 10th-anniversary logo, sharing video testimonials from clients, and launching a small business maintenance program to help small businesses create strong operational foundations.

Frazier, the firm’s top executive, is a former Internal Revenue Service agent, and he also served in the US military as an Army Ranger. He is admitted to practice law in the Tennessee Supreme Court, the United States of America Middle District of Tennessee, and the United States Tax Court. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Tennessee. He is currently studying to complete a Masters in Tax Accounting in August 2019, and he is studying to be an Accredited Estate Planner, a designation he will receive by September 2019.

Frazier appeared in The Tennessee Bar Association’s January 2019 issue where he was recognized in the publication’s cover story as one of its “Pro Bono Heroes.”

For more information about The Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier, visit www.crfrazierlaw.com.

IS YOUR OFFICE CURRENTLY OPEN DURING NORMAL BUSINESS HOURS?

The Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier is maintaining its normal business hours. However, we are modifying our operations to help protect the safety and well-being of our customers and employees during this public health emergency. We are taking the following steps based on the best and latest guidance from the Center for Disease Control and local public health officials:

• All consultations will be conducted by phone.
• Our physical office is closed to visitors until further notice.
• We encourage our clients to continue using our online tools to schedule appointments and obtain information to prepare for your meetings with Attorney Charles Frazier.

WHEN AND HOW CAN I CONTACT YOU?

Our business hours are Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. We can be reached by phone at 615-267-0125, by email at info@crfrazierlaw.com, by or online.

DO YOU OFFER VIDEO CONFERENCING MEETINGS?

To protect the health of our clients, employees and the general public, we have suspended in-person meetings. We do offer virtual “face-to-face” meetings through video web conferencing applications. We provide all relevant log in information and instructions upon confirmation of all appointments.

ARE YOU ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS?

Yes.

ARE COURTS OF LAW STILL OPEN IN MY AREA?

The Tennessee Supreme Court is keeping all Tennessee courts open, but suspending all in-person judicial proceedings through April 30, 2020. Read more. Court operations may vary from state to state. Check locally for more information on court closures.

Again, please feel free to reach out to us with questions at any time, and see the following links below for CDC, state, and/or local updates regarding public health orders, court operations, and other information.

• CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/
• State: https://www.tn.gov/

“The Court has been monitoring the public health crisis very closely, and it is clear we need to extend the Order,” said Chief Justice Jeff Bivins. “Over the past 10 days, we have had multiple conference calls and communications with judges from all levels of courts in Tennessee, and the discussions have been critical to the modifications we made in the Order. The judicial branch is working very hard to keep courts open and accessible to the work that must be done to protect Tennesseans and will continue to do so throughout this crisis.”

In addition to extending the suspension of most in-court proceedings to April 30, today’s Order also: instructs judges not to take action to move forward cases involving eviction, ejectment, or displacement except in exceptional circumstances; includes alternatives for notarizing documents; slightly modifies the list of exceptions to the suspension of in-person hearings; and clarifies that courthouses in Tennessee should remain open for essential hearings and filings, even if some entrances are closed or an appointment must be made to enter.

In addition, the Order directs the presiding judge in each judicial district to submit a plan for a reduction in the local jail population. Judges had previously been directed to work with local law enforcement, prosecutors, and public defenders to review their local jail populations and make reductions when possible.

“Reduction in local jail populations is a critical component in controlling the spread of COVID-19,” Chief Justice Bivins said. “There are low-risk, non-violent offenders who can safely be released and supervised by other means to reduce local jail populations. Judges, law enforcement, and attorneys must work together to identify and create an action plan to address this issue.”

The Order includes a list of exceptions including proceedings necessary to protect constitutional rights of criminal defendants, including bond-related matters, preliminary hearings for incarcerated individuals, and plea agreements for incarcerated individuals; proceedings related to relief from abuse, including but not limited to orders of protection; proceedings related to statutory order of protection hearings after entry of an ex parte order necessary to satisfy any due process concerns; proceedings related to emergency child custody or visitation orders; proceedings related to the voluntary surrender of parental rights; settlements involving a minor or a person with a disability; Department of Children’s Services emergency matters related to child safety, placement, permanency, or federal funding for children in foster care; proceedings related to petitions for temporary injunctive relief; proceedings related to emergency mental health orders; proceedings related to emergency protection of elderly or vulnerable persons; proceedings directly related to the COVID-19 public health emergency; and other exceptions as approved by the Chief Justice.

The Court’s Order includes several other provisions to help alleviate hardships or unintended consequences caused by the suspension of non-essential, in-person proceedings. For example, deadlines set forth in court rules, statutes, and administrative rules, including statutes of limitations, that are set to expire between March 13 and April 30, 2020, are extended through May 6, 2020 and orders of protection that would expire between March 13 and April 30, 2020, are extended until May 6, 2020.

The Order applies to state and local Tennessee courts, including appellate, trial, general sessions, juvenile, and municipal courts.

The Order strongly encourages court proceedings by telephone, video, teleconferencing, email, or other means that do not involve in-person contact. Additionally, the Court’s Order suspends any Tennessee rule, criminal or civil, that limits a judge’s or clerk’s ability to utilize available technologies, including telephone conferences, video conferences, and video arraignments, that can help limit in-person contact. The Order also does not affect a court’s consideration of civil or criminal matters that can be resolved without an in-person proceeding.

“Judges from around the state and the technology team at the Administrative Office of the Courts hit the ground running March 13 when it came to finding and utilizing technology in courtrooms to keep court proceedings moving,” Chief Justice Bivins said. “Through the AOC court security grants, approximately 30 video arraignment systems have been installed over the past two years and judges are also using WebEx, Zoom, Skype and other tools to hold hearings and meetings. Tennessee judges have proven to be innovative problem-solvers when needed. The Court greatly appreciates the flexibility and accommodations shown by all in the legal system, including court clerks, attorneys, court staff, and law enforcement personnel.”

Now in its seventeenth year, the Leadership Law program is designed to equip Tennessee lawyers with the vision, knowledge and skills necessary to serve as leaders in their profession and local communities.

This year’s class of 33 attorneys – chosen from across the state – will meet for its first session in January, and then spend the next six months learning about leadership in the legal profession, issues in the courts, policymaking in state government and the importance of community service.

Frazier is the top executive and founder of the Law Offices of Charles R. Frazier, a firm based in La Vergne, Tenn., that focuses on tax law, estate planning and business law. Since 2009, his firm has provided legal counsel to individuals and businesses across Tennessee, and he has helped clients with IRS tax matters throughout the country. Frazier is admitted in the Supreme Court of the State of Tennessee, the United States of America Middle District of Tennessee (federal court), and the United States Tax Court to practice law. He received a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Tennessee and a Master of Taxation from Florida Atlantic University. He is also a veteran of the United States Army.

The Tennessee Bar Association (TBA) is the largest professional association in Tennessee with more than 13,000 members. Founded in 1881, the TBA provides opportunities for continuing legal education, professional development and public service. The TBA’s dedication to serving the state’s legal community is evidenced by its membership roll, which represents the entire spectrum of legal practice: plaintiff and defense lawyers, corporate counsel, judges, prosecutors, public defenders, government lawyers and legal services attorneys.