Keeping your will up to date is an important part of maintaining a solid estate plan, and our Salmon Creek, WA elder law lawyer is here to help you when the time is right. As your life changes, so should the documents that protect your family and your assets. Many people draft a will once and set it aside for years, but over time, it can become outdated or incomplete. We help clients review and revise their estate plans so that their wishes are always reflected accurately.
Our firm has been assisting clients in Washington for over a decade, and our attorney has received a 10.0 Avvo Rating as a Top Attorney for Estates and Business. We have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes and avoids any common mistakes. Contact NW Legacy Law today.
After A Marriage Or Divorce
A new marriage or divorce often changes how you want your assets distributed. If you’ve recently married, your spouse may have legal rights that should be reflected in your will or trust. After a divorce, it’s important to remove your former spouse if they are still listed as a beneficiary or executor. These updates prevent confusion and make sure your estate passes to the people you currently want to include.
When You Welcome A Child Or Grandchild
Adding a new member to your family is one of the most common reasons to update your will. You may want to include your child or grandchild as a beneficiary or name a guardian who will care for them if something happens to you. This is also a good time to revisit your trust provisions if you’ve already created one, so that your growing family is fully covered. Updating your will after a birth is an incredibly important part of protecting your family’s future.
After A Significant Financial Change
If you acquire new assets such as property, investments, or business interests, those should be added to your estate plan. On the other hand, if you sell major assets or experience financial loss, your will should be revised to reflect your current holdings. Keeping your documents current helps reduce potential disputes and confusion later.
When You Move To A New State
Each state has its own estate planning laws, and what’s valid in one state might not meet legal requirements in another. If you move across state lines, reviewing your will with a qualified attorney is essential. Working with an attorney well-versed in your state’s laws can help confirm that your plan meets those laws and addresses any local requirements for witnesses or notarization.
After The Death Or Change Of A Beneficiary Or Executor
If someone named in your will passes away or can no longer serve as executor, your plan should be updated as soon as possible. Having an alternate executor and clear succession of beneficiaries prevents delays and confusion during probate.
Periodic Reviews Every Few Years
Even if there are no major life changes, reviewing your will every three to five years is a smart habit. Tax laws, family relationships, and financial priorities can all shift over time, and small updates can make a big difference. Checking in with your attorney to discuss your estate plan and if it needs to be updated is important.
Contact Our Salmon Creek Elder Law Lawyer Today
At NW Legacy Law, we believe an updated will gives you and your loved ones peace of mind. If it’s been a few years since you reviewed your estate plan—or if any of these life changes apply—it may be time to revisit your documents. We’re here to help you keep your plan current and aligned with your goals for the future.
