The Top 12 Reasons It Might Be Time to Update Your Estate Plan

By Kristi Hancock, Estate Planning Attorney – Kristi Hancock Law, PLLC | Protecting Your Legacy

As an Arizona estate planning attorney, I often tell clients that estate planning is not a one-time task—it’s an ongoing process. Your life evolves, and your estate plan should evolve with it. What worked for you five years ago may not reflect your current wishes or protect your family today.

If you’re in Mesa, Queen Creek, Phoenix, or anywhere across Arizona, here are the top 12 reasons why now might be the right time to update your estate plan and ensure you’re truly protecting your legacy.

1. You Got Married or Divorced

In Arizona, a community property state, marriage or divorce significantly affects your legal and financial relationships. An outdated plan may unintentionally benefit an ex-spouse or overlook your new partner.

2. A Child or Grandchild Was Born (or Adopted)

Expanding your family is a joyful event—but it’s also a legal milestone. Your estate plan should include provisions for guardianship, inheritance, and special needs planning if needed.

3. You Relocated to Arizona

If you’ve moved here from another state, your existing plan may conflict with Arizona probate and community property laws. An Arizona estate attorney can ensure your documents are valid and effective under local statutes.

4. Significant Changes to Your Assets

Whether you bought a home in Mesa, sold a business, or received an inheritance, these shifts should be reflected in your trusts, wills, and beneficiary designation.

5. A Loved One Named in Your Plan Passed Away

If a beneficiary, trustee, or executor has died or become incapacitated, it’s crucial to update your estate documents to appoint new trusted individuals.

6. You Started or Closed a Business

As a small business owner, your estate plan should address business succession, asset protection, and tax considerations specific to your business and Arizona laws.

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7. You Want to Avoid the Arizona Probate Process

Arizona’s informal probate process can still be time-consuming and expensive. Using tools like revocable living trusts, TOD deeds, and properly titled assets can help your loved ones avoid court entirely.

8. You’re Concerned About Protecting Heirs from Divorce or Debt

Asset protection trusts and spendthrift provisions can safeguard your family’s inheritance from outside risks like lawsuits, creditors, or divorce settlements.

9. You or a Spouse Experienced Health Changes

Illness or aging may require adjustments to your healthcare power of attorney, mental health directive, or long-term care planning under Arizona’s medical consent laws.

10. Tax Laws or Estate Planning Laws Changed

Federal and Arizona tax laws, such as those affecting the estate tax exemption or IRAs, change frequently. A periodic legal review ensures you’re not missing opportunities for gifting or tax minimization.

11. It’s Been 3+ Years Since Your Last Review

Even if nothing major has changed, best practices suggest reviewing your estate plan every few years to stay compliant and aligned with your current goals.

12. You’ve Changed Your Mind

Your relationships, values, or goals may have shifted. Whether it’s charitable giving, disinheriting an heir, or updating trustees, your documents should reflect today’s wishes—not yesterday’s.

Let’s Ensure Your Plan Protects What Matters Most

At Kristi Hancock Law, PLLC, I’m passionate about helping Arizona families and individuals build and maintain estate plans that grow with them. My commitment is clear: Protecting Your Legacy.

Whether you need to create a new Arizona revocable living trust, revise a will, or establish powers of attorney, I’ll walk with you every step of the way.

🔒 Protect Your Legacy Today
Schedule your estate planning consultation with Kristi Hancock Law, PLLC to begin the peace-of-mind process.