Estate Planning For Second Marriages

September 19, 2023
Bradley Campbell
Senior woman as a bride in a second marriage
Before celebrating a second marriage, focus on less exciting matters, like redoing your estate plan to match your new family's needs.
Attorney Bradley Campbell
Bradley Campbell
Bradley Campbell has over 35 years of experience. A trusted advisor and counselor, Attorney Campbell will help you find solutions for your case by focusing on personal attention, communication, and professionalism. If you need an attorney for probate, business law, or real estate with the experience and understanding to serve you with the individualized care and attention that your case deserves. Attorney Campbell provides consultations throughout the week at our convenient locations in Tyler, TX and Mineola, TX.

The Unique Challenges of Second Marriages

In first marriages, working together to raise children can solidify a bond. However, in a second marriage, the dynamics with adult children change. If important estate planning issues are not addressed, the relationship between the siblings and the new spouses can have serious consequences, according to an article titled “Into the Breach; Getting Married Again?” from the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Even if there are no children, there may be family heirlooms or items with sentimental value you want to keep in the family, perhaps passing to a cousin, nephew, or niece.

Pre-Marital Discussions on Assets and Wishes

Having early discussions with your future spouse before you remarry about your assets, finances, and wishes for your property and loved ones is essential. Consider the following list of issues to review together from an article in The Bristol Press titled, “Plan your estate before you remarry.”

Inventory of Assets and Liabilities

Take an inventory of all assets and liabilities. Inheritances, financial matters, especially if one party has the majority of the income and assets, are crucial. Review life insurance policies, retirement plans, credit card debt, and anything you own. Being open and honest about your debts and assets ensures transparency in the union.

Financial Management in the Marriage

Decide how you will handle finances. Address questions like: Will you combine all assets? Keep investment accounts separate? How will household expenses and remaining debt be managed? Remember, post-marriage, you might become liable for your partner’s debts, which could impact credit scores.

Real Estate Considerations

Real estate matters, such as deciding on a primary residence if both parties own homes, and considerations for rental income or selling other properties, should be discussed. Will both names be on the title for the primary residence?

Posthumous Asset Distribution

Decide what you want to happen when you die. Meet with an experienced Tyler estate planning attorney who has experience with estate planning for second marriages, like Bradley S. Campbell. He can help you create a comprehensive estate plan. Ensure that children from prior marriages are not disinherited. Address this through trusts, life insurance policies, or joint property ownership. Inheritances in second marriages often become contentious. Without proper planning, stepchild battles can become expensive and bitter.

Addressing the Spouses of Adult Children

Do not overlook the influence of the spouses of adult children. A disgruntled partner can create significant issues within the family.

Planning for Incapacity

This becomes more complex in a second marriage. Determine who will make critical decisions during incapacitation. Consider family dynamics, like how adult children might respond to an elderly step-parent. Discuss health care proxies and power of attorney well in advance. If relationships are strained, consider individual discussions instead of group ones.

Consultation with an Estate Planning Attorney

Meet with an estate planning attorney, especially if you have children or significant assets. Update your will and other estate planning documents. Consider a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement. Determine if you need a trust to protect children in a second marriage. Consult with Bradley S. Campbell before saying, “I do…again.”

References: Pittsburgh Post-Gazette (March 1, 2022) “Into the Breach; Getting Married Again?” and The Bristol Press (July 14, 2023) “Plan your estate before you remarry

Share This Post
we will make the difference:
Briefcase icon
Over 35+ Years of Experience
Convenient Office Locations icon
Convenient Office Locations
Friendly and Helpful Staff icon
Friendly and Helpful Staff
Comprehensive Legal Services icon
Comprehensive Legal Services
Book A Consultation With Us Today
eXPERIENCe YOU CAN RELY ON
Book a Consultation
Subscribe to Our Informative e-Newsletter
Mineola Office

228 West Broad Street,
Mineola, Texas 75773

Directions
Tyler Office

6713 Old Jacksonville Hwy, Suite 201
Tyler, Texas 75703

Directions
IMS - Estate Planning and Elder Law Practice Growth Advisors
Powered by