Christmas has a funny way of pulling real life into focus. It is the season when families gather, big announcements are made, and people finally have the breathing room to notice the gaps in their personal affairs, often prompting a conversation with an attorney for wills.
A new baby arrives. Someone gets engaged. A relationship changes. A loved one raises a difficult question around the dinner table. Or maybe you simply make a big purchase that shifts your financial picture and signals it may be time to speak with an attorney for wills.
These moments often highlight a simple but important truth. Your will should reflect your life as it is now, not as it was when you first signed the document, which is why checking in with an attorney for wills can be so important.
Many people file their will away and forget about it, but a lot can change in twelve months. The period between Christmas and the New Year is one of the best opportunities to check whether your estate planning is still aligned with your intentions, something an attorney for wills can help you assess calmly and clearly.
Below is a guide to help you work out whether this is the right time to update your will and what to review before the year ends, with insights commonly shared by an attorney for wills.
Why Is Christmas a Common Time to Revisit Your Will with an Attorney for Wills?
Life does not move at a steady pace. It leaps. And Christmas is often a season of leaps, the kind an attorney for wills regularly sees reflected in estate plans.
Here are the life events that commonly come to light during the festive season, often prompting a review with an attorney for wills.
1. New babies and growing families
A new child, grandchild, or stepchild is one of the strongest reasons to update a will. You may want to include them as beneficiaries, create or revise guardianship arrangements, or adjust the way assets are distributed.
2. Engagements or relationship shifts
You might realise your current executor is no longer the appropriate choice, or you may want to include a partner who was not previously in the picture. Conversely, separation or divorce often means your existing will is no longer consistent with your wishes.
3. Major purchases or financial changes
New property. New business. New investments. Or changes to superannuation arrangements. Big purchases often happen at the end of the year and may require changes to your estate planning to ensure your assets are protected.
4. Family conversations that highlight risks
The holiday period often brings up questions people do not usually ask during the year.
Who will manage your affairs if something unexpected happens?
Do your children understand your wishes?
Has someone told you a story that made you rethink your own plans?
These conversations are usually the nudge that reminds people to check whether their will still holds up.
How Often Should You Update Your Will?
There is no set rule, but a practical guideline is to review your will every two to three years or whenever a significant life event occurs.
If your circumstances have changed but your will has not, it may not reflect your current intentions. This can cause confusion, disputes, or unintended outcomes for the people you care about.
Signs You Should Update Your Will Before the New Year
If any of the following apply to you, it is likely time to speak with a lawyer.
1. Changes to your relationships
This includes:
• a new relationship
• a separation or divorce
• changes in family dynamics
• concerns about how family members may handle inheritance
Your will should reflect your most current and accurate intentions.
2. Changes to who you trust with important decisions
Your executor or guardian may no longer be the right choice. Relationships evolve, and your appointed person should still be capable and willing to take on the role.
3. Financial changes
If your asset pool has grown or changed, your will needs to reflect that. Property, shares, businesses, inheritance from others, or even new bank accounts can affect your estate plan.
4. Family members with changing needs
Children with additional support needs, elderly parents, or blended family structures may require tailored planning, such as:
• testamentary trusts
• protective structures
• updated beneficiary provisions
5. You cannot remember what your will says
This is more common than you think. If it has been years since you have reviewed it, you may not remember the details. If you would not feel confident explaining your will to someone else, it is time for a refresh.
What Exactly Should You Check in Your Will Before the New Year?
Here is a simple checklist to help you review your document.
1. Your beneficiaries
Ask yourself:
• Are there any new family members you want to include?
• Do you want to change the proportion of your estate left to each person?
• Do you want to exclude anyone based on recent events or concerns?
2. Your executor
Your executor is the person responsible for managing your estate. Check whether they are still suitable and whether you want to nominate a backup executor.
3. Guardianship for children
If you have children under 18, make sure your guardianship appointments still reflect your wishes and the practical reality of your family life.
4. Property and financial assets
Have you bought or sold anything significant this year?
Did you move house, purchase an investment property, or start a business?
These changes should be captured in your estate planning.
5. Digital assets
More people are now including:
• online banking
• cryptocurrency
• social media accounts
• digital files
• cloud storage
Your will should express how these are accessed and managed.
6. Superannuation nominations
Your will does not control your super unless a binding death benefit nomination is in place. The holiday period is a good time to check your fund and update your nomination if needed.
Why Updating Your Will Matters More Than You Think
A will is not only a legal document. It is a tool that gives your family clarity, certainty, and peace of mind during an emotional time.
Here is why keeping it current is important.
• It prevents family disagreements
Ambiguity leads to disputes. A clear and updated will helps avoid misunderstandings and conflict.
• It ensures your assets go where you want them to go
If your circumstances have changed and your will has not, your estate may not be distributed the way you intended.
• It protects vulnerable family members
From minor children to ageing parents, an updated plan ensures they have the support they need.
• It reduces stress for your loved ones
Your family will already be going through a difficult time. A well prepared estate plan makes the process significantly easier.
How a Lawyer Can Help
At Fulljames Law, we guide you through each step to ensure your will is legally valid, clearly written, and aligned with your current wishes.
We provide a holistic approach that considers:
• your family structure
• your financial picture
• your long term goals
• any risks that need managing
Our fixed fee services mean you know exactly what the cost will be at the beginning, which gives you peace of mind and full control over your planning decisions.
If you are not sure whether your will needs updating, a simple conversation with our team can give you clarity.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if my will is still valid?
Your will remains legally valid until it is revoked, replaced, or found to be legally defective. The question is not whether it is valid, but whether it reflects your current wishes.
What happens if I do not update my will after a major life change?
Your estate may be distributed in a way that no longer reflects your intentions. This can also lead to disputes between family members.
How long does it take to update a will?
In most cases, it can be completed quickly once you have reviewed your intentions. Complex matters may take longer, but our team keeps the process as smooth and simple as possible.
Can I update my will myself?
DIY changes often create mistakes that can invalidate your will. It is safer to speak with an experienced lawyer for wills to ensure the document is legally sound.
Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
It is helpful to bring a list of your assets, beneficiaries, and any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
Final Thoughts
The week between Christmas and the New Year is the perfect time to pause, reflect, and set yourself up for a secure year ahead. Updating your will might feel like a small task, but it has a significant impact on your family and your peace of mind.
If you would like help reviewing or updating your will, our team at Fulljames Law would be honoured to support you.
Disclaimer
This article provides general information only and is not legal advice. You should seek personalised advice from a qualified lawyer for your specific circumstances.