Why An Outdated Will Can Be as Risky as Having No Will at All~2 min read

If your will does not reflect your current life, it may cause confusion, disputes, and unintended outcomes. Regular updates help keep your wishes legally sound and aligned with your present circumstances.

Life Changes Faster Than You Think

Life rarely stands still. Marriages, divorces, births, deaths, and financial changes can all impact your estate plan. If your will does not account for these events, it may no longer represent what you actually want. For example, you might have named an ex-spouse as a beneficiary or failed to include a new child or grandchild. These oversights can leave your loved ones facing disputes or unfair outcomes.

Legal and Financial Consequences

An outdated will can create legal confusion that costs your family time and money. If a will conflicts with current laws or includes outdated property references, it can delay probate or even invalidate portions of the document. Your estate could then be distributed under Texas intestacy laws, which may not match your wishes. Regular reviews help avoid complications and protect your beneficiaries.

Protecting Your Loved Ones

Updating your will is an act of care for the people who matter most to you. It provides peace of mind that your assets, guardianship designations, and personal wishes are accurate and current. Without these updates, family members may face uncertainty or conflict when they should be focusing on supporting one another.

How Often Should You Review Your Will

You should review your will every few years, or any time a major life event occurs. Marriage, divorce, retirement, business sale, or changes in property ownership are all reasons to make adjustments. Even if nothing significant has changed, a periodic review helps confirm that your will still reflects your priorities and follows current Texas law.

Contact Springer & Lyle

If you have not reviewed your will in several years, it may no longer reflect your true intentions. The experienced attorneys at Springer & Lyle can help you evaluate your existing estate plan and make the updates you need. Call Daniel Abasolo at 940-387-0404 to schedule a consultation and discuss your options.

Springer & Lyle is located at 1807 Westminster, Denton, Texas 76205.

FAQs

Q: How often should I update my will?
A: Review your will every three to five years or after any major life event, such as marriage, divorce, or a new child.

Q: Do I need an attorney to update my will?
A: Yes. An attorney can confirm that the changes meet legal standards and prevent unintentional errors that could invalidate your will.

Q: What happens if I never update my will?
A: Your estate could be distributed according to outdated wishes or state law, which might leave out important people or create disputes among heirs.