Will my father's will hold up? Ask Susan
A reader seeks advice on whether a handwritten will witnessed by two deceased individuals is legally valid. An expert from Public Trust explains that while handwritten wills can be valid, they must meet specific legal requirements regardless of the witnesses' status.
Why it matters
Estate planning is a common source of family conflict, and understanding the legal requirements for wills is essential for avoiding costly probate disputes.
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My father is in his 90s and has a handwritten will witnessed by two people, now deceased. He believes this is a legal document and that I will have no issue getting it accepted when he dies.
Attempts at conversations with him about the will end up in stalemate, with him stating it will be sufficient for me to sort everything out. I'm not so sure and am seeking your advice if such a will holds the legal weight he believes it does?
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