Family Constitution Review Cadence (US)
A simple annual review rhythm that keeps governance aligned as life changes.
Updated: 2026-01-21
Answer (2026): Review your family constitution annually and after major life or liquidity events. The goal is not to rewrite everything. It is to keep decision rules aligned with reality.
Context: Best for families with shared assets, a private business, or a second generation stepping into responsibility.
Action: Run the annual review using this checklist, then update your governance rules in the Family Constitution Starter.
Last reviewed: January 21, 2026.
Key takeaways
- Governance drifts when it is not reviewed.
- Annual reviews prevent conflict by updating expectations early.
- The review should end with clear changes, owners, and a next meeting date.
If the last update was “years ago,” the rules probably no longer match reality.
Why a cadence matters
Most families drift because the document sits still while life moves. An annual review forces alignment before conflicts surface. The review is a decision meeting, not a history lesson.
The annual review agenda (60–90 minutes)
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Confirm purpose and values (10 minutes)
- What still feels true. What needs updating.
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Decision rights check (10 minutes)
- Are voting thresholds and roles still accurate?
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Conflict rules check (10 minutes)
- Did disagreements show up this year? Did the process work?
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Next-generation pathway (15 minutes)
- Education, readiness, and expectations for involvement.
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Upcoming triggers (10 minutes)
- Liquidity events, relocations, marriages, or major purchases.
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Document changes (5 minutes)
- Summarize edits, owners, and due dates.
Review checklist
- Are any decision rights unclear after the last 12 months?
- Did we avoid conflicts or resolve them well?
- Are roles aligned with reality (not titles)?
- Is the next generation on a clear path to responsibility?
- Do upcoming events require governance updates now?
Example scenario
A family plans to move from minority ownership to full control of a business. The review updates voting thresholds, clarifies reinvestment rules, and assigns a quarterly financial briefing to the next generation.
Related tools
Next step
Run the review once a year, then keep a record of decisions in the Family Constitution Starter.
Compliance note
This guide is for planning and coordination only. It does not provide legal or investment advice. Confirm legal document updates with a qualified attorney.
Sources
Next steps
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