Divorce can be a challenging and emotionally draining experience, leaving soon-to-be-ex-spouses with many legal and personal matters to resolve. Amidst all the turmoil, it is vital for individuals going through a divorce to understand the significance of updating their beneficiaries on their various accounts and financial instruments. Failing to do so after a divorce is final can have serious consequences.

A recent case decided by the New Jersey Appellate Division, In the Matter of the Estate of Michael D. Jones, No. A-2944-21, (N.J. Super. Ct. App. Div. Nov. 14, 2023), shows what those consequences look like.