Estate Planning, Probate, Guardianship & Elder Law

Your Family. Our Purpose.

Mary Beth Kelly

Updating Your Estate Plan After Divorce

There are key life events that mean it is time to consider your estate plan, and divorce is at the top of the list. When your marital status changes, it is wise to revise the plan you have in place – or draft an estate plan if you have not done so yet. There are many ways in which divorce and estate planning intersect, especially if you are getting divorced as you near retirement age.

Here at The Law Office of Mary Beth Kelly, LLC, I have more than 35 years of experience in the law, having spent 14 of them as an estate planning lawyer in Lake Mary. I know how these areas of the law work together and what steps you’ll need to take to secure your future. Known for being caring, compassionate and more than competent, I look forward to helping you explore your legal options.

What Updates Do You Need To Make?

Exactly how you adjust your estate plan for your post-divorce life depends on your unique situation, but the following are common areas where I help clients make these key changes:

  1. Revoking an existing will that includes your ex.
  2. Updating your health care proxy as needed.
  3. Naming new beneficiaries and powers of attorney to remove your ex from these important roles.
  4. Considering a trust, or updating any existing trusts that have your ex as a beneficiary or a co-owner.
  5. Revisiting guardianship options for minor children to define who cares for the children if you pass away.
  6. Considering key financial accounts, such as shared bank accounts, investments or retirement funds.

As an attorney, I see daily just how complex life can be. Estate planning and divorce only make this more obvious, creating new complexities and meaning it is imperative for people to plan extensively in advance.

Setting Up A Consultation

If you are interested in creating an estate plan or updating yours to reflect your new normal after divorce, get in touch with me for compassionate and professional guidance. Set up a consultation through the online contact portal or just call 407-536-6901 today.