Many estate planning attorneys will tell you to update your will whenever you have a major life change. Some of the most common reasons to update a will include marriage or divorce, the adoption/ birth of a child, moving states, and more. Additionally, you may need to remove certain loved ones from your will if they pass away or are no longer in your life. Generally, it is recommended that you take a look at your will every 3-5 years to ensure that it reflects your current situation. But how exactly do you update your will? Read on to learn more about the process of updating a will in Michigan.
How do I update my will?
A will is not a document that should be taken lightly. When updating your will, it is important to do so with care. The two main ways to update/alter your will include drafting a codicil or revoking your old will and creating a new one.
- The first option is to amend your will with a codicil. If you are making a minor change to a will that already exists, a codicil can accomplish this. A codicil is a document that is attached to the original will, stating the changes you wish to make. This can explain, modify, or revoke part of a will. When writing a codicil, you are required to abide by the same execution laws as an original will to ensure that the change is valid. It is a good idea to work with an estate planning attorney to ensure that the codicil does not conflict with the original will.
- The second option is to create a new will. Depending on the individual, it may be easier to revoke an original will and draft a new one instead of writing a codicil. This eliminates possible conflicts between an old will and a codicil. However, you must be sure you revoke the old will so it cannot be used instead of the new one in the event of your passing.
If you have any questions or concerns about updating your will, our firm is here to help. We want to ensure that your future is safe and secure. Contact us today to discuss your plans with a skilled and dedicated estate planning attorney.
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If you need a seasoned firm to help you with any divorce, family, or estate-related matter, please do not hesitate to contact Collis, Griffor & Hendra today to schedule a consultation.
