Married individuals who are considering divorce should review their estate plans to determine if they remain appropriate in light of the possible divorce. Remember that the law considers you to be legally married until the judge signs the final dissolution decree ending the marriage. In the event you were to die or become disabled prior to the legal termination of your marriage, your estranged spouse may have legal control over you and your estate, and may be entitled to most, if not all, of your estate. However, through properly drafted estate planning documents, you can provide that someone other than your spouse will have control over you (in the event of your incapacity) or your estate (in the event of your death), and you can limit your estranged spouse's rights as a beneficiary of your estate.

The following estate planning articles are designed to highlight some of the major estate planning issues facing you at this time, but it is not a list of all estate planning issues you should consider. Because of the very technical nature of the issues that can arise when considering your estate plan while a divorce is pending, you should seek the advice of a qualified attorney to give you specific guidance on your particular situation.