Did you know your will must meet a few requirements to be valid in Texas. For instance, it must be made by someone at least 18 years of age and of sound mind and memory. With that said, as a first-time will writer, you probably have a few other questions regarding your own document. Perhaps you’re wondering if your will should be notarized. The short answer is “no,” but you should be aware of specific details. For that, the estate planning lawyer McAllen offers at Fryer and Hansen have the necessary information.
Important Information About Notarized Wills
In Texas, a will is not required to be notarized to validate it – that is, unless you decide to create a self-proving will. If your will is self-proving, your witnesses don’t need to be contacted by a court to prove its validity. This validation method can potentially make the probate process faster and easier, but to make a will self-proving through a notary, you must follow a few steps.
You must first create a self-proving affidavit in the presence of a notary. This document must include a declaration from you and your witness statement that you have signed your will in the presence of that witness. Once the affidavit has been created and signed, it can be notarized.
Let’s Make the Process Easier
For some, the process of writing a will is relatively simple. But for others, writing a will can bring forward too many questions and doubts. Contact our estate planning lawyers in McAllen for guidance and if you have questions about our services.