What are your plans for 2025? Are you considering getting a divorce for all the wrong reasons? Perhaps you’re considering getting a “divorce” to “safeguard your inheritance”? If so, you might want to reconsider!

Recently, I received a call from someone concerned about a potentially lengthy estate administration process for a partner who is still alive and how to access funds after that partner passes away. This is a common worry for couples. This person was contemplating divorcing their partner while both were still alive to secure some assets and avoid the waiting period. However, this approach can lead to significant risks and complications.

For starters, we can’t predict who will pass away first. Additionally, a partner may not necessarily remain committed to the relationship after a divorce. The divorce process also brings about a range of changes in legal status and personal implications.

While divorce may be a reality for some people, considering it for the wrong reasons can have unintended consequences. I recall a story from my late brother, who was an attorney. He once had a client whose spouse received a substantial settlement from their divorce, only to ultimately walk away based on the misguided motivation of “protecting assets.”

Instead of pursuing a divorce, consulting with a qualified estate planning professional who can address your concerns is wiser. There are legitimate ways to access funds during the estate administration process and strategies to ensure you have immediate resources available and can actively manage your affairs before death.

How you approach a divorce matters! If you handle it correctly, the “d” in divorce can become a capital “D.” Empower yourself with knowledge and wisdom. In our book, Switching Billion Dollar Conversation Lines, we discuss the impact of divorce on wealthy families and how to navigate it for a better future.