Generally, the finalization of a divorce will revoke a will or at least nullify any provisions in your will in favor of an ex-spouse. Depending on the law of your particular jurisdiction, it is unlikely that the mere filing of a divorce will abrogate the rights of your spouse. Therefore, if you have concerns about the estate planning ramifications of your divorce proceedings, you should discuss them with an experienced divorce attorney.

If you have a will, it may be a good idea for you to change the beneficiary clause, such that any proceeds will go not through your soon-to-be-ex, but instead go directly to your children (if you have any) or to the executor of your estate. Likewise update the beneficiaries for life insurance, IRA, or other financial instruments.

If you do not have a will, discuss with your attorney the benefits of preparing your will prior to the divorce. Your attorney may assist you in drafting the will, or it can be as basic as one you obtain online. Your will should in part designate who should care for your children should you and your spouse pass away at the same time. The will should be notarized, with witnesses as required. (Note that a notary public does not testify to the content of the will, but only to the fact that you have signed it.)

Preparing your will prior to your divorce is especially beneficial if you have minor children, which leads to the question of talking with your lawyer and with a good friend or relative about assuming guardianship of your children should you pass away before they reach the age of majority.

Also discuss with your attorney the benefits of having a living trust in addition to a will. Your divorce attorney, being a specialist in divorce and family law and not in estate planning, may refer you to a colleague who does. Generally speaking, a living trust avoids probate for those assets listed in the trust, but it does not avoid death taxes.