WHAT REQUIREMENTS MUST BE FOLLOWED TO EXECUTE A WILL?

One way in which a will can be executed is by being made self-proving. This means the person acknowledges the will before an officer authorized to administer oaths, and witnesses to the will make affidavits before the officer. The officer then must create a certificate attached to the will that evidences the acknowledgment and affidavits.

If the will is self-proving, it can be admitted to probate court without any further proof. Otherwise, the will typically must be proved by the oath of one of the witnesses to the will. These steps are necessary before the will is enforced by the court.

On a more fundamental level, there are basic requirements that must be followed for the will to be valid. For instance, the person making the will has to be at least 18 years old and of sound mind at the time the will is signed. The will itself must be written and witnessed in accordance with Florida law.

These formalities must be followed or the will may not be considered valid by the court. The same is true for any amendments or changes to the will, meaning the will's terms cannot be changed simply by crossing out something after the original execution of the will. Accordingly, individuals should ensure their will is properly executed so it accomplishes the individuals' goals.

Please reach out to us at 141 5th Street NW, Suite 300, Winter Haven, Florida 33881 at 863.294.1114.

Established in 1991, Rignanese & Associates is available to work with clients on their legal needs.

On behalf of J. Kelly Kennedy, Attorney/CPA, PLLC, which has been acquired by Rignanese & Associates, PLLC.

Source: Florida Bar, "Do you have a will?," accessed on Nov. 26, 2016