Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA
Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area
For More Than 40 Years

Photo of the legal professionals at Harry Lewis Co., LPA

Trusted In The Columbus Area For More Than 40 Years

What if I do not update my estate plans after my divorce?

On Behalf of | Jun 5, 2018 | Post-divorce Estate Planning |

After you get divorce, you probably have many financial and personal things to contend with. However, one thing that may slip your mind is your estate plan. While there may be more pressing things to handle, you cannot forget to update your estate to reflect the changes in your personal life. You need to make changes as soon as you can and ensure your plan in properly filed according to Ohio law, so you can avoid some of the problems that can come from an outdated plan.

According to the American Bar Association, your estate plan needs updated to remove people who you may no longer wish to make decisions for you or have access to your assets. The court goes by your most recently filed plan. It will not care that your circumstances had changed. So, for example, if your ex-spouse was listed as the beneficiary to your estate, that will stand unless you change it.

In addition, your loved ones may face other issues if you have not made changes to the documents. Your children may be left having the court decide where they go. Your property may be divided up and given to your ex-in laws or spouse. They may also get control of your money.

Above all else, it will leave your family having to fight in court over your estate. They can contest, but that can be a long legal process. The last thing you want is to leave them having to fight a legal battle while also mourning your death. This information is for education and is not legal advice.