reasons to update your will after divorce

February 24, 2023

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Divorce can have a significant impact on your life and your future plans. It can also affect your estate plan and your wishes for how your assets will be distributed after your death. This is why it is essential to redo your will after a divorce. In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why updating your will after a divorce is so important.

Reasons you should update your will after divorce:

  1. To update beneficiary designations
    When you get divorced, your ex-spouse is no longer your spouse and, therefore, is not entitled to inherit from you. Updating your will allows you to name a new beneficiary or beneficiaries for your assets.
  2. To avoid conflicts
    If you die without updating your will, your ex-spouse may still be listed as a beneficiary, which could lead to conflicts among your heirs. Updating your will ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and not those of your ex-spouse. It is also a good idea to review your assets and discuss beneficiary designations, to make sure everything is current.
  3. To reflect your new circumstances
    Divorce often leads to changes in your financial situation and your family dynamic. Updating your will to reflect these changes ensures that your assets are distributed in a manner that is consistent with your new circumstances.
  4. To appoint a new guardian
    If you have children, your will may also name a guardian to care for them in the event of your death. If you have divorced, you may want to appoint a new guardian to reflect the changes in your family dynamic.
  5. To ensure your wishes are followed
    Updating your will after a divorce ensures that your wishes for the distribution of your assets are followed and that your assets are not distributed in a way that is contrary to your wishes.

In conclusion, redoing your will after a divorce is essential. It allows you to update your beneficiary designations, avoid conflicts, reflect your new circumstances, appoint a new guardian, and ensure that your wishes are followed. Taking the time to update your will after a divorce can provide peace of mind and ensure that your assets are distributed according to YOUR wishes.


The information contained in this blog is for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. If you have specific legal questions or concerns, it is recommended that you seek the advice of an experienced attorney.


If you would like to talk to one of our attorneys about estate planning, contact Hightower Reff Law today.

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