Are you ready to create your first Michigan will? Now is the perfect time to speak with an estate planning lawyer in Michigan about your options.
There are certain steps that are required in order for a will in Michigan to be legally valid. Failing to adhere to these steps could allow someone to open a will contest after you pass away and your estate enters probate.
It is a common misconception that your will in Michigan must be notarized. It does not need to be notarized in order to be legally valid, however, there must be at least two witnesses to the signing of the will in order for it to stand up in court. The witnesses have to be legal adults.
It is helpful if the individuals you choose to serve in the role of witnesses could be located to testify about the will if that were to become necessary. A person who will inherit from your estate after you pass away is still eligible to serve as a witness, although this is not always advisable.
Finally, you do not have to tell witnesses about the contents of your will. They only need to be informed that the document you were signing in their presence is your will and that you are asking them to witness your signature on this document. If you have other questions about the process of drafting, amending or even revoking a will in Michigan, schedule a consultation with an attorney today.