New Year, New Legal Start: Planning Ahead After Separation or Divorce
- LaTerria Sherer
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
As the year comes to a close, many people begin thinking about fresh starts. If you’ve recently separated or finalized a divorce—or you’re preparing to file—this is an important time to get your legal and financial house in order.
Here are key areas to review as you head into the new year.
1. Update Your Estate Planning Documents
After a separation or divorce, it’s important to revisit:
Your will
Any trusts
Powers of attorney
Health care directives
Beneficiary designations on life insurance and retirement accounts
These documents control what happens if something happens to you. If they still list a former spouse or no longer reflect your wishes, the new year is a good time to update them.
2. Review Your Parenting Plan and Schedules
If you share children with a former spouse or partner:
Confirm that your parenting plan still fits school schedules, activities, and your work commitments.
Note any recurring points of tension (exchanges, holidays, communication).
Consider whether a modification may be needed if circumstances have significantly changed.
Sometimes, patterns from the first year post-divorce reveal where adjustments could help.
3. Reassess Your Financial Picture
A new household means a new budget. As you head into the new year:
Review income, support obligations, and major expenses
Plan for tax implications
Make a list of any remaining joint accounts or debts that still need to be separated
Consider meeting with a financial professional if needed
The more clarity you have around your finances, the more confident you can feel moving forward.
4. Reflect on What You Want This Year to Look Like
Legal planning is about more than forms and court orders—it’s about supporting the life you want to build after separation or divorce. Ask yourself:
What stability do I want for myself and my children this year?
What legal loose ends still need to be tied up?
What support systems (legal, emotional, financial) do I need in place?
Putting these questions on paper can help you set practical goals.
We’re Here to Help You Step Into the New Year Prepared
Whether you’re at the beginning of a divorce, in the middle, or adjusting to life after, it’s never too late to get clear on your rights and responsibilities.
If you’d like to start the new year with a stronger legal foundation, our team is here to guide you.
Comments