Last Will Testament

A notarized will does not need to be probated.When a person dies leaving behind a will that is not notarized, the law requires that its validity be ascertained by a notary or by a court. Similarly, any non-notarized modification made to a will must be probated, whether the will is notarized or not.

In Illinois, to have a valid will it is required that two or more credible witnesses validate or attest the will. This means each witness must watch the testator (person making his or her will) sign or acknowledge the will, determine the testator is of sound mind, and sign the will in front of the testator.

A will doesn't have to be notarized to be valid. But in most states, you'll want to add a self-proving affidavit to your will, which must be signed by your witnesses and notarized.If you sign your will in a lawyer's office, the lawyer will provide a notary public.

Do I Need to Have My Will Notarized? No, in Illinois, you do not need to notarize your will to make it legal.However, Illinois allows your will to be self-proved without a self-proving affidavit, as long as you sign and witness it correctly.

Obviously, the person who is named as executor or personal representative is entitled to a copy of the will. He or she is in charge of applying for probate, managing the decedent's property, and making sure the instructions in the will get carried out.

Write an Introduction. Select an Executor. Identify Your Heirs and Beneficiaries. Nominate a Guardian for Your Minor or Dependent Children. Assess and Divide Your Property. State Your Funeral Wishes (If You Have Any) Sign and Notarize the Document.

In Illinois, to have a valid will it is required that two or more credible witnesses validate or attest the will. This means each witness must watch the testator (person making his or her will) sign or acknowledge the will, determine the testator is of sound mind, and sign the will in front of the testator.

Beneficiaries of a will must be notified after the will is accepted for probate. 3feff Moreover, probated wills are automatically placed in the public record. If the will is structured to avoid probate, there are no specific notification requirements.