Many people believe an estate plan is a “set it and forget it” document. However, at the Law  Office of Adam Brown (ambrownlawgroup.com), I frequently tell my clients that a stagnant  plan is almost as dangerous as having no plan at all. In 2026, with shifting tax laws like the  One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) and evolving family dynamics, your plan needs to be a  living, breathing reflection of your current reality. 

When Should You Review Your Documents? 

You should conduct a formal review of your estate plan every three to five years, or  whenever you experience a major life event. Specifically, keep an eye out for these “red  flags” that indicate it’s time to call your attorney: 

• Changes in Family Structure: Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of  a beneficiary are clear signals that your distribution plan needs an overhaul. 

• Significant Financial Changes: If your net worth has changed substantially, or if  you have acquired new types of assets—like crypto or high-value business  interests—your current plan may no longer be tax-efficient or structured properly. 

• Relocation: If you have moved to New Jersey from another state, your previous  documents may not comply with local probate rules or the current New Jersey  inheritance tax statutes. 

• Changes in Law: Legislation like the OBBBA or updates to medical autonomy laws  (e.g., NJ Bill A1562) can render older “boilerplate” documents obsolete or sub optimal. 

Don’t Wait for a Crisis 

An outdated plan can lead to unintended consequences, such as assets going to the wrong  people or your family being forced into costly court proceedings. Contact the Law Office  of Adam Brown today for a 2026 plan audit. We’ll ensure your documents remain as  resilient as your goals.