Your life is changing. Your documents should too.

It depends on the document and the state. Some states revoke ex-spouse beneficiary designations in wills and trusts automatically upon divorce. But retirement accounts and life insurance are governed by federal law and the beneficiary form itself — divorce typically doesn't change them. Assume nothing updates automatically and review everything yourself.

Maybe not. Many states issue automatic temporary restraining orders (ATROs) during divorce proceedings that prohibit changing beneficiaries, canceling insurance, or transferring assets. Check your state's rules and your divorce filings before making changes. Once the divorce is final, update immediately.

Your ex likely retains parental rights regardless of divorce. If you die, your children will typically go to their other parent — that's not something your estate plan can override. What you can control: who manages their inheritance (your trustee), who serves as backup guardian if both parents are unavailable, and the terms under which your children receive assets.

A new trust is cleaner. Your old trust probably names your ex-spouse throughout — as co-trustee, successor trustee, beneficiary, and more. Amending all of that creates a messy document with room for confusion. Starting fresh ensures your plan reflects your life now, not your marriage.

Follow the decree. Divorce agreements often require maintaining life insurance with your ex-spouse or children as beneficiaries, especially if you owe child support or alimony. Changing those designations could put you in contempt of court. Keep what you're required to keep — and update everything else.