Life in the Dallas–Fort Worth metroplex moves fast—from new jobs in Uptown to growing families in the suburbs—and every milestone can reshape how you want your legacy handled. At The Vermillion Law Firm, our Dallas estate-planning attorneys help Texans keep their wills and trusts in lock-step with life’s twists and turns, so state law never overrides your wishes.

Below are the key moments when you should revisit—and possibly revise—your estate plan.

1. Moving to or from Texas

Texas is a community-property state with no state estate tax, but other jurisdictions may treat inheritances, trusts, and advance directives differently. Whether you’re arriving in Dallas from California, heading to another state, or buying that ranch outside the Metroplex, let us review your will, powers of attorney, and living trust to be sure they comply with your new state’s probate and tax rules.

2. Saying “I Do” (or “We’re Done”)

Marriage merges not just hearts but finances. A new spouse likely becomes your primary beneficiary under Texas law, but you may want to designate step-children, protect separate property, or create a joint revocable trust.
On the other hand, divorce automatically cuts out some—but not all—inheritance rights. Updating your estate plan immediately after a divorce prevents an ex-spouse from unintentionally receiving family heirlooms or life-insurance proceeds.

3. Significant Changes in Wealth

• Windfall: Sold your Plano tech start-up? Inherited a Highland Park property? Your current documents might not cover new tax strategies, philanthropic goals, or asset-protection vehicles.
• Setbacks: If you’re facing business losses or debt, you may need to simplify distribution plans or adjust creditor protections.

4. Growing Your Family

Welcoming a child—or grandchild—means naming Texas-qualified guardians and creating trusts that shield minors from probate delays. Our Dallas estate-planning lawyers can structure education or special-needs trusts so assets transfer smoothly.

5. Loss of a Beneficiary or Executor

If a named heir, trustee, or executor passes away, your plan can stall. Updating beneficiaries and successor fiduciaries preserves your intent and keeps the probate court from stepping in.

How Often Should You Review Your Estate Plan?

We recommend a check-up every three to five years or after any major life event listed above. A quick consultation with a knowledgeable Dallas estate-planning attorney ensures your plan mirrors your current goals and Texas law.

Ready to Protect Your Legacy?

The Vermillion Law Firm has guided North Texans for more than two decades. If you’ve recently experienced a life change—or simply can’t recall the last time you looked at your will—contact our office in Dallas, TX, for a complimentary estate-plan review.