How often should basic estate planning documents be updated?
We generally recommend an annual review of basic estate planning documents (your Will, revocable living trust, durable power of attorney, healthcare directive, and various beneficiary designations) in order to be certain that they continue to meet your estate planning objectives. This annual review can be conducted by you without an attorney, unless you have questions or concerns that your attorney can address for you. Once every three to five years, it is advisable to meet with your estate planning attorney to review the terms of your documents and to discuss whether changes in the law or your personal circumstances require you to modify one or more of your documents. In fact, if you experience a significant change in your health, family or finances, you should contact your estate planning attorney to be sure that your estate plan continues to be accomplish your objectives, even if it has been less than three years since those documents were prepared. QUESTION NO. 3: Should I appoint
