Life is full of milestones - some joyful, some challenging - and many of them directly impact your estate plan. At Gullotta Law Group, we help families across Sonoma County protect what matters most by keeping their estate plans up to date.
If you've recently gotten married, gone through a divorce, or welcomed a new grandchild, it may be time to revisit your will, trust, powers of attorney, or beneficiary designations. Here’s what you need to know.
Why Life Events Trigger Estate Plan Updates
Estate planning isn’t a “set it and forget it” process. It should reflect your current life, relationships, and priorities. After major life changes, your existing documents may no longer carry out your wishes or protect your loved ones.
1. Marriage: Expanding Your Legacy
Getting married is a major shift that can impact everything from property ownership to healthcare decisions.
What to review:
- Add your spouse as a beneficiary on your will or trust
- Update powers of attorney and healthcare directives
- Reassess guardianship nominations if children are involved
- Consider creating or updating a marital trust
In California, community property laws may also affect how your assets are divided, which is another reason to involve a qualified Sonoma County estate planning attorney early.
2. Divorce: Protecting Your Interests
Divorce can invalidate certain provisions in your estate plan, but not automatically. Without proper updates, your ex-spouse could still inherit property or have authority over legal decisions.
Key areas to update:
- Remove your ex-spouse from your will, trust, and life insurance policies
- Appoint new powers of attorney and healthcare agents
- Revisit guardianship choices if minor children are involved
- Reallocate property and trust distributions
Avoid unintended consequences by working with a knowledgeable California estate planning attorney who can help you make legally sound revisions.
3. Welcoming a New Grandchild: Planning for Future Generations
Grandchildren often inspire a renewed focus on legacy planning. Whether you want to leave assets, fund education, or set up a trust, updating your plan ensures your newest family member is cared for.
Consider the following updates:
- Add your grandchild as a beneficiary
- Create or revise a generation-skipping trust
- Discuss gifting strategies and tax planning
- Update personal letters or legacy statements
Thoughtful estate planning allows you to pass down both wealth and values across generations.
How Often Should You Review Your Estate Plan?
In general, you should review your estate plan every 3–5 years, or after any of the following:
- A change in marital status
- A new child or grandchild
- A death in the family
- A significant financial change
- Relocation to a new state
A proactive review with a Sonoma County estate planning lawyer can help you avoid disputes and ensure your plan reflects your current intentions.
Work with a Trusted Sonoma County Estate Planning Attorney
At Gullotta Law Group, we focus on helping families stay prepared for whatever life brings. Whether you're newly married, navigating divorce, or celebrating a new grandchild, our team can guide you through smart, compassionate estate planning decisions.
Call us today at (707) 379-7590 or schedule a free consultation online to review your estate plan and protect your family's future.