When was the last time you checked your will?
A family gathers after the passing of a loved one. Emotions are already heavy when the will is opened, only to reveal names that make no sense, assets that no longer exist and an executor who has long since moved on. The grief of loss is suddenly tangled with confusion, delay and, in some cases, painful disputes. All of this—not because intentions were unkind, but simply because the will had not been updated to reflect life as it truly was.
It is a sobering thought, yet one that highlights an important truth: a will is not a once-off document. Life moves forward—families change, assets shift, priorities evolve. If your will does not keep pace, the results can undermine the very care you meant to show.
Key moments should always prompt a review: a marriage or divorce, the birth of a child, the death of a beneficiary or executor, the purchase or sale of significant property, or a move across borders. Even less dramatic changes—like shifting relationships or a change in financial circumstances—can make it wise to revisit your estate plan.
Updating your will is not difficult, but it must be done correctly. For substantial changes, a new will that revokes all others provides clarity. For smaller adjustments, a codicil—a formal amendment—may suffice. What should be avoided are casual notes or verbal assurances, which have no legal standing and can, in fact, cause further problems.
At its heart, keeping your will current is an act of care. It is a way of protecting your family from conflict, ensuring your wishes are respected and giving peace of mind when it is needed most.
If it has been some time since you last reviewed your will, or if you have recently experienced changes in your life, we encourage you to take this important step. At CA Trust Company, we are here to help ensure your estate plan remains accurate, thoughtful and legally sound.