Probate in Tennessee commonly takes six months to a year. It may take longer there is a court fight over the will (which is rare) or unusual assets or debts that complicate matters.n Alternative to Probate for Small Estates. Tennessee provides an alternative to regular probate if the estate is small. The simplified procedure is available if the total probate estate is worth no more than $25,000, not counting real estate. It can be used to transfer all estate assets except real estate.