When it comes to putting together the critical documents that outline what will happen to you in the event that you become incapacitated or your property in the event that you pass away, it might seem like a crockpot that you can set and forget. However, estate planning requires regular maintenance and oversight just as you would visit your dentist or your doctor on an annual or biannual basis for your health. 

As the dynamics of your family change, it is important to keep in contact with your experienced estate planning attorney so that you can adjust your documents as necessary. As family members pass away and new ones are born into the family, your estate plan should account for these changes and for different circumstances that can arise over time. Most people update their estate planning according to major life-changing events like having a child, retiring, or getting married.

However, this leaves you at risk for not having a plan that is in line with your ultimate retirement and other planning options. The purpose of any planning is to ensure the maximum outcome for everyone involved and as your needs shift within your family, you need to incorporate these planning opportunities into the estate planning process as well.