The frequency of review of estate planning is like going to the doctor for a check-up or to the dentist for a tooth cleaning.  It needs to be done on a repetitive basis.  This is true because circumstances in life can change and certainly the law can change.  Even if you do not think that much has changed in your life, an estate planning attorney can frequently point out some options that you might have missed.  What follows is a list of life changing events or activities, in no particular order, that should cause you to consult a Los Angeles estate planning attorney: a. marriage or divorce; b. birth or adoption of a child; c. significant change in size of estate; d. serious illness in the family; e. marriage or divorce of an heir or beneficiary; f. change in career including retirement; g. death of your spouse; h. purchasing real estate in another state; i. moving to another state; j. maturity (or irresponsibility) of a child; and k. more than a couple of years since the review of your plan with an estate planning attorney.

The message is that California estate plans should be reviewed regularly.  Otherwise, there is a risk of unintended consequences and probate litigation.  To have your estate plan reviewed, please contact a Los Angeles Estate Planning Attorney.