Change of Beneficiary Attorneys in Granite Bay, California

Establishing Amendments to Your Trust  

Prudent clients will establish an estate plan as early as possible to protect their families and their wealth. However, unanticipated changes may arise years after establishing a will or trust.
When such major life changes occur and you want to modify the terms of your trust, the estate planning attorneys at Herrig, Vogt & Hensley, LLP can help. Our estate planning attorneys have more than 30 years of combined experience, and we can assist with any legal issues related to your estate plan - from the initial drafting of your trust to any necessary amendments.

It’s important to note that you do not make these changes to your trust yourself, because doing so could potentially invalidate the trust and make your property subject to intestate succession rules upon your death. Instead, let our lawyers make these changes for you to ensure all amendments are structured properly. We have comprehensive knowledge of estate planning and probate law, and we can help you navigate this legal process efficiently.

When Can I Make Beneficiary Changes?

Exactly when you can make beneficiary changes depends on the type of trust you have. For example, you can make changes to your beneficiaries if you have a revocable or inter vivos trust.

Revocable Trusts

California Probate Code §15402 allows you to make changes to a revocable trust at any time, following the trust’s procedure for revocation. Beneficiary changes may include the addition or removal of beneficiaries like family members, friends, or charities. Often, a major life change may trigger the removal, addition, or substitution of a beneficiary. Some of the most common reasons for making changes in beneficiaries include:

• Marriage

• Divorce

• Birth of a child

• Death of a loved one

• Relationship with a beneficiary has become estranged

• Changes in the financial circumstances of the intended beneficiary

Whatever the reason you may want to amend your trust, our team of legal professionals is here to help.