Divorce changes more than your daily routine. It reshapes your family, your finances, and your sense of what the future looks like. For many people in central Indiana, it can feel like life has been turned upside down. But in the middle of all the change, updating your estate plan is one of the most important steps you can take to regain control.
Think about it this way: if something unexpected happened tomorrow, would your wishes be carried out as they stand today? Or would old documents give authority and assets to someone you no longer want involved in your life? For many recently divorced individuals, the answer is the latter, and that is why revisiting your estate plan matters.
Why Estate Planning Feels Different After Divorce
After divorce, emotions often mix with practical concerns. You may feel relief that the process is behind you, but also anxiety about what comes next. Estate planning in this season is about more than documents, it is about peace of mind.
Updating your plan ensures:
- Your children are cared for: Guardianship, trusts, and beneficiary designations can be set up to protect them.
- Your assets reflect your wishes: From your home to retirement accounts, you decide who receives what—not your ex-spouse by default.
- Your decisions are honored: Powers of attorney and healthcare directives name the people you truly trust if you cannot speak for yourself.
Steps Toward a New Beginning: Reassess Your Priorities
Maybe before divorce you wanted everything to go to your spouse. Now, your focus may be on securing your children’s future, or perhaps supporting parents who helped you through the transition. Clarifying these goals is the foundation of your updated plan.
Work with an Indianapolis Estate Planning Lawyer
Indiana law has its own rules on divorce and inheritance. An experienced local lawyer can help you avoid unintended outcomes, like an ex-spouse still being listed as a beneficiary. They can also guide you through choices that reflect your new reality and protect what matters most.
- Update Key Documents
- Will and Trusts: Revise beneficiaries and executors.
- Financial Accounts: Adjust life insurance and retirement account designations.
Healthcare and Financial Powers of Attorney: Replace your ex-spouse with someone you trust to act in your best interests.
Common Questions After Divorce
Do I need to change my child’s guardian designation?
Yes. If you named your former spouse’s family or if your circumstances have changed, it is wise to reconsider who would care for your children.
What happens if I do not update my plan?
Old documents may remain in force. That means your ex-spouse could inherit assets, make medical decisions, or manage your estate—even if that is the last thing you want.
Secure the Future You Choose With the Estate Planning Attorneys at Lacy Law Office
Divorce can feel like the end of a chapter, but it is also the start of a new one. Updating your estate plan helps you move into that chapter with clarity and confidence.
At our firm, our Indianapolis estate planning lawyers understand the mix of emotions and decisions you are facing. We will listen to your goals, explain your options under Indiana law, and create a plan that reflects the life you are building now.
Reach out today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you take this important step toward stability, security, and peace of mind.