What happens if you create a will, but then it no longer reflects what you need in your estate plan? You may need to update or revoke your will, but it can be confusing to figure out the right path for you.
A will is a basic cornerstone of most California estate plans, but you may have multiple reasons why you wish to revoke or change it, including shifts in your own life or overall intention changes for your assets. A will does give you some flexibility to revoke or modify it after it has been created, and it is wise to review this document at least yearly to ensure that it reflects your current property and assets. You should also review your will before or after you get divorced, married, have a child, or any other significant life event.
You can make minor changes to an existing California will by creating what is known as a codicil. This can add to, explain, subtract from, qualify, modify, or otherwise change your will. However, if you need more substantial changes to your existing document, you could revoke the previous will, rendering it invalid and ineffective.
If you want to start fresh, it’s best to work with a lawyer to help you revoke your prior will and create a new one.
It is important to revoke your prior will first and then create a new will that reflects your current goals. You cannot cross out things in your current will or write in new provisions, as this could jeopardize the validity of your document. It is smart to work directly with a Pasadena estate planning attorney to discuss your individual goals. Let us help you create an estate plan in line with your needs and personal intentions.
