What does it mean to self-prove a will?

What does it mean to self-prove a will?

• A. To establish the will without witnesses
• B. To establish the validity of one's will
• C. To revoke a previous will
• D. To create an electronic version of a will

Answer: (B)

Self-proving a will refers to the process where the validity of a will is established using a self-proving affidavit. This affidavit is a sworn statement made by the testator (the person who created the will) and witnesses, affirming that the will was executed in compliance with the legal requirements of the state. By providing this affidavit at the time of the will's submission for probate, the need to have witnesses testify in court to its validity can often be avoided, streamlining the probate process. This concept is particularly beneficial because it adds a layer of certainty and ease when the will is contested, as the affidavit serves as prima facie evidence of the will's authenticity. Thus, self-proving a will significantly bolsters its enforceability after the testator’s death.

Self-proving a will refers to the process where the validity of a will is established using a self-proving affidavit. This affidavit is a sworn statement made by the testator (the person who created the will) and witnesses, affirming that the will was executed in compliance with the legal requirements of the state. By providing this affidavit at the time of the will's submission for probate, the need to have witnesses testify in court to its validity can often be avoided, streamlining the probate process.

This concept is particularly beneficial because it adds a layer of certainty and ease when the will is contested, as the affidavit serves as prima facie evidence of the will's authenticity. Thus, self-proving a will significantly bolsters its enforceability after the testator’s death.