Estate Planning: Witness Requirements For Wills
In Arizona, one way to validate a will is to have two witnesses observe the signing of the document. A witness must view the actual signing of the document and attest to the signature on the document.
In Arizona, there are numerous requirements for who can serve as a witness:
- The witness must be at least 18 years old,
- The witness must be of sound mind,
- There must be two (2) witnesses, and
- A witness cannot also be a beneficiary of the will.
Keep in mind, Arizona also recognizes handwritten wills. Handwritten wills don’t require witnesses, but the writer of a handwritten will must be of sound mind, sign and date the document, and write all assets and material provisions of their will in their handwriting (to protect against possible forgery).
It is very important to work with an experienced attorney on drafting and completing your estate planning. An experienced attorney at Brown & Hobkirk, PLLC can provide you with sound legal advice that could save you time, money, and avoid future complications with your estate. Contact us today for your free consultation.
