When you are going through a divorce, it can be difficult to grasp all of the changes you will need to make throughout the process. Understandably, it’s easy to overlook important legal matters and put off making decisions amidst the emotional turmoil.
One important detail to consider is the impact your divorce can have on your will. As you dissolve your marriage, it’s helpful to consider how this significant life event might affect your estate planning. Realistically, you may want to change your will to ensure it reflects your current intentions.
At the beginning of your divorce, it is always in your best interest to consult a divorce attorney who can cover all the legal bases. They can advise you on the need to update your will with an estate planning lawyer for proper asset protection during or after a divorce. Don’t hesitate to contact a divorce attorney near you to ensure you consider all legal implications of your divorce.
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The Importance of Updating Your Will During Divorce
Divorce brings about numerous legal changes, from the division of assets to child custody arrangements. However, many individuals fail to recognize that divorce can also have a significant impact on their estate planning, particularly their wills. Divorce is a life-altering event that requires careful consideration of your future, including how your assets are distributed after your passing. Here are some reasons why updating your will during divorce is advisable:
Preventing Unintended Beneficiaries
When you initially created your will, you likely included your spouse as a beneficiary. However, after going through a divorce, you may no longer want your ex-spouse to inherit any of your assets. Failing to update your will can result in your ex-spouse still receiving a portion of your estate, even if that is not your intention. A divorce attorney can advise you to schedule an appointment to update your will and ensure it reflects your wishes and prevent unintended beneficiaries.
Guardianship of Children
Going through a divorce when there are children involved adds another layer of complexity, especially when you are working through custody and guardianship arrangements. If you have minor children, you must update your will to reflect any changes you want to make to your custody arrangements.
Your will can specify who you want to act as guardians for your children in the event of your passing. Failing to update this information can result in custody disputes and uncertainty for your children’s future. An experienced divorce attorney can handle this process and ensure your will reflects your current wishes regarding guardianship.
Distribution of Assets
Divorce often leads to a redistribution of assets. Through your divorce, you might gain new assets or release assets that were previously included in your will. It’s important to update your will to reflect these changes and to ensure it accurately addresses how these should be distributed. An attorney can help you review your current assets and update your will accordingly, providing you with peace of mind that your assets will pass to the intended beneficiaries.
Changes in Financial Circumstances
Divorce can significantly impact your financial situation. It’s important to review your will and consider if there have been any notable changes in your financial circumstances as a result of your divorce. You may want to modify the distribution of your assets or include specific instructions to accommodate these changes. An experienced lawyer can assist you in closely reviewing your financial situation. They can explain laws and advise on updating your will to align with your current circumstances.
Consulting a Divorce Attorney for Your Case
Updating your will during a divorce is a complex process. While your divorce attorney might not handle will updates, they can certainly remind you to handle this important step. Here are some additional advantages of seeking legal guidance for your divorce:
Results Driven
A divorce attorney will know the laws and standards for divorce, custody, and more in your state. They have the experience to guide you through the process of ending your marriage and can ensure all necessary legal requirements are met. Their legal knowledge in this area will help you make informed decisions and avoid potential pitfalls.
Customized Approach
Every divorce is unique, and so are your intentions when dividing assets and planning for the future. By consulting an experienced family lawyer, you can receive personalized guidance tailored to your specific wishes. They will take the time to understand your situation and provide you with the best possible solutions to protect your financial interests and those of your loved ones.
Working Through Complicated Legal Procedures
Every divorce involves working through complex legal procedures. An attorney can handle all the necessary paperwork, ensuring that everything is filed correctly and in a timely manner. This takes the burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on the emotional aspects of the divorce process.
Avoiding Costly Mistakes
Divorce is already an expensive process, and making mistakes can add to those costs. The right divorce lawyer can avoid costly errors by providing solid advice and oversight specific to your situation. They can advise on your rights and what you can realistically expect, so you can proceed in an efficient and legally sound manner.
Speak with a Skilled Divorce Lawyer Today
Going through a divorce has a significant impact on various aspects of your life, including finances, parenting, and even your will and other estate planning. Failing to update your will during this time can lead to unintended beneficiaries, custody disputes, and the improper distribution of your assets. Consulting with a result-driven family lawyer is essential to ensure your will reflects your current wishes and protects your interests.
If you’re going through a divorce or have recently finalized one, it’s important to update your will. Contact an attorney near you to ensure your divorce and will are in alignment, your assets are protected and distributed according to your agreed upon settlement.
Speak with a knowledgeable divorce lawyer near you today to successfully handle your divorce and division of assets, securing peace of mind for your future.
BTL Family Law is
Here to Help
