How Divorce Affects Your Will and Estate Plan

Matrimonial home

Key Takeaways

  • Divorce in Ontario automatically revokes gifts to a former spouse in a will
  • Executor roles assigned to an ex-spouse are usually revoked after divorce
  • Separation alone does not change your will or estate plan
  • Beneficiary designations (RRSPs, insurance) must be updated manually
  • Outdated estate plans can cause disputes and unintended asset distribution
  • Working with Divorce Lawyers ensures your estate plan reflects your current wishes

 

What Happens to Your Estate Plan during Separation vs Divorce

Many people assume separation has the same legal effect as divorce. This is incorrect.