Your estate plan reflects your wishes for your assets, healthcare, and family. But life doesn’t stand still—circumstances change, and so should your plan. Failing to update it can create confusion, disputes, and unintended consequences. ttorneys at SBEMP (Slovak, Baron, Empey, Murphy & Pinkney) law firm provides professional legal advice and services to clients in Palm Springs, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Inland Empire, Orange County, Coachella Valley, and surrounding communities.
Why Updating Your Estate Plan Matters
An outdated estate plan may no longer reflect your current family, financial situation, or state laws. Updating your plan ensures your assets are distributed as intended and your loved ones are cared for.
Major Life Changes That Require Updates
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Marriage or divorce: New spouses should be added; ex-spouses often need to be removed from beneficiary designations.
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Birth or adoption of children/grandchildren: Ensure guardianship and inheritance provisions are in place.
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Death of a loved one: Replace deceased beneficiaries, trustees, or executors.
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Significant financial changes: Buying property, selling a business, or acquiring new investments.
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Relocation: State laws differ, so moving may require updates.
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Health changes: A diagnosis may require adjustments to healthcare directives or powers of attorney.
Risks of Not Updating Your Estate Plan
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Assets may go to unintended recipients.
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Outdated executors or trustees may be unable to serve.
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Family disputes and court intervention may arise.
Best Practices for Estate Plan Updates
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Review your estate plan every 3–5 years, even without major life changes.
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Immediately update after significant events like marriage, divorce, or inheritance.
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Work with an estate planning attorney to ensure compliance with local laws.
FAQs About Estate Plan Updates
How often should I review my plan?
Every 3–5 years, or after any major life event.
Can I update my will on my own?
Minor changes can sometimes be done with a codicil, but professional review is strongly recommended to avoid errors.
What documents should I review?
Your will, trusts, power of attorney, healthcare directives, and beneficiary designations.
Contact Us
If your life circumstances have changed, it’s time to review your estate plan. Our attorneys will guide you through updates to protect your family and legacy. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Have any legal questions? Contact the Attorneys at SBEMP Law Firm:
For more information or to request a consultation please contact the law offices of SBEMP (Slovak, Baron, Empey, Murphy & Pinkney) by clicking here.
SBEMP LLP is a full service law firm with attorney offices in Palm Springs (Palm Desert, Inland Empire, Rancho Mirage, Indian Wells), CA; Indian Wells, CA; Costa Mesa (Orange County), CA; San Diego, CA; New Jersey, NJ; and New York, NY.
DISCLAIMER: This blog post does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is formed by reading it. This blog post may be considered ATTORNEY ADVERTISING in some states. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Additional facts or future developments may affect subjects contained within this blog post. Before acting or relying upon any information within this newsletter, seek the advice of an attorney.
