8 Life Events That Mean You Must Update Your Will

Making a will is not a one-time task. Life changes, and your will should change with it. Here are eight events that should trigger an immediate will review with your Cork solicitor.

1. Getting Married

Marriage automatically revokes any will made before the marriage under Irish law. This is probably the most overlooked will fact in Ireland. If you made a will before your wedding and have not made a new one since, you currently have no valid will.

2. Getting Divorced or Separated

Separation does NOT automatically revoke a will or remove an ex-spouse as beneficiary. A decree of divorce does affect inheritance rights, but only from the date of divorce — and your will should be updated to reflect your new circumstances as soon as possible.

3. Having Children

Each new child needs to be considered in your will — both as a beneficiary and potentially as someone for whom a guardian should be appointed. Update your will after each child's birth.

4. Death of a Beneficiary or Executor

If someone named in your will dies before you, that part of the will may fail — leaving that share of the estate in uncertainty. Similarly, if your named executor dies, you need to appoint a replacement.

5. Significant Change in Assets

Buying or selling a house, receiving an inheritance, starting a business, or retiring can all affect how your estate should be distributed. Review your will whenever your financial circumstances change significantly.

6. Starting or Ending a Cohabiting Relationship

If you begin living with a partner, make a will protecting them. If a relationship ends, review who you have named as beneficiary and executor.

7. Moving Abroad or Acquiring Foreign Property

If you acquire property in another country, your Irish will may not cover it. International estate planning requires specific advice from a solicitor familiar with cross-border succession.

8. A Change in Your Wishes

Simply changing your mind about who should inherit is sufficient reason to update your will. Your will should always reflect your current wishes — not decisions made years ago under different circumstances.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does marriage revoke a will in Ireland?

Yes. Under the Succession Act 1965, marriage automatically revokes any previous will. You must make a new will after getting married.

How often should I review my will in Ireland?

Review your will after any major life event — marriage, children, divorce, property changes, or death of a beneficiary. A general review every 5 years is also recommended.

How do I update my will with a Cork solicitor?

Contact Hugh Phelan Solicitor on 021-489-7134. A will update typically requires a short consultation to discuss changes, followed by a new document being drafted.