While New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 3B:3-14) may automatically remove certain spousal rights, it doesn’t address everything. Outdated provisions can lead to disputes or unintended results. Replacing your ex- spouse with someone you trust helps ensure your wishes are honored. Don’t forget about beneficiary designations. Life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and payable-on-death bank accounts pass directly to the named beneficiary, regardless of what your will says. If those forms still list your former spouse, they could inherit those assets. A quick call to your financial institutions can prevent that outcome. Take a close look at trusts and property titles. If you have a revocable living trust, review it carefully and update it as needed. For irrevocable trusts, changes may require legal guidance to determine the best course of action. Property ownership is another area that needs attention. Retitling assets in accordance with your divorce agreement and coordinating those updates with your estate plan helps avoid conflicting instructions later. Protect your children’s future. Divorce often raises new questions about your children’s financial security. You may want to create or revise a trust to manage their assets, especially if they are minors. Naming a responsible trustee ensures funds are handled appropriately. Divorce marks a new chapter. Taking the time to update your estate plan ensures your wishes reflect your current life, not your past. If you need help reviewing or revising your documents, Merlino & Gonzalez is here to guide you every step of the way.
A Fresh Start Deserves a
Fresh Estate Plan WHEN YOUR RELATIONSHIP STATUS CHANGES, YOUR PLAN SHOULD, TOO
Divorce brings a lot of change emotionally, financially, and legally. While you’re focused on moving forward, your estate plan might be the last thing on your mind. But reviewing it during and after a divorce can save you stress and prevent serious complications down the road. Use your existing plan as a helpful road map. If you already have a will or trust in place, that’s a great starting point. A well-prepared estate plan typically includes a detailed snapshot of your assets, like bank accounts, retirement funds, insurance policies, real estate, and more. That organized record can make conversations about dividing property more straightforward. Update key roles and beneficiaries. Once your divorce is finalized, it’s critical to revisit your documents. Many people forget that their former spouse may still be listed as executor, trustee, agent under a power of attorney, or beneficiary.
CHEESY ASPARAGUS ORZOTTO MICHELE’S RECIPE CORNER
INGREDIENTS •
2 tbsp plus 1/4 cup olive oil, divided 1 bunch of asparagus, trimmed and peeled
• • • • • • •
1/2 tsp salt
•
Black pepper, to taste
1 cup frozen peas
• • • • •
1 leek, halved and sliced
1 oz Parmesan, grated 1/4 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups orzo
2 garlic cloves, chopped 1/2 cup dry white wine
2 tbsp butter
1/4 cup basil leaves
3 cups broth
DIRECTIONS 1.
In a pot over medium-high heat, heat 2 tbsp oil. Add asparagus, cover, and cook 4 minutes. Transfer to a cutting board to cool, then cut into 1-inch pieces. 2. Heat remaining oil. Add leek, season with salt, and cook 3 minutes. 3. Stir in orzo and garlic and cook, stirring frequently, for 2 minutes. 4. Add wine and cook 2–3 minutes. 5. Stir in broth, 1/2 tsp salt, and pepper, then simmer, covered, on low heat for 12–15 minutes. 6. Add peas to orzo, cover, and cook 2 minutes. 7. Remove from heat, add Parmesan, cream, and butter, and stir until butter melts. Stir in asparagus and basil.
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