Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

What are the Requirements of a Valid Will in Texas?

Texas attorney Rania Combs discusses the statutory requirements of a valid holographic Will and a valid typewritten Will in Texas.

Requirements of a Valid Will

Does a Typewritten Will in Texas Need Witnesses If It is Notarized?

To be valid, a typewritten Will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses, even if notarized. Unfortunately, her mother didn’t know that. Her mother had signed…

Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

What are the Mental Requirements for Making a Will?

A concerned daughter contacted me. Her mother’s Will was outdated, and needed to be updated. She has been wanting to make changes for years, but getting this…

Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

Is A Will Valid if the Testator signed the Will Several Days Before the Witnesses?

Section 251.051 of the Texas Estates Code sets forth the requirements of a valid Will in Texas. It provides that a last will and testament: must…

Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

Can I Make a Will if I am Physically Incapable of Signing a Document?

A Will is an important document. It allows you to specify who will receive your property when you die. To be valid, certain formalities must be…

Requirements of a Valid Will

Defining “Handwriting” for Purposes of a Holographic Will

What Is a Holographic Will? A holographic will is a handwritten will that is entirely in the testator’s own handwriting and signed by them.

Requirements of a Valid Will

Does a Will Need to be Notarized in Texas?

In Texas, Wills do not need to be notarized to be valid.  However, the required formalities of a valid Texas Will differ depending on whether the…

Requirements of a Valid Will

Is an Unsigned Will Valid in Texas?

Last week, I discussed why estate planning is important despite our optimistic outlook for the future. The article was prompted by an email I received…

Requirements of a Valid Will

Does the Absence of a Self-Proving Affidavit Invalidate a Will?

Texas recognizes two types of written wills: An attested will is the most common type of Last Will and Testament. To be valid, it must be…

Requirements of a Valid Will

Are Videotaped Wills Recognized in Texas?

Texas recognizes only two types of wills: a holographic (handwritten) will, and an attested (typewritten) will. A videotaped will, in an of itself, has no legal…