California Last Will and Testament PDF
California at a glance: Witnesses Required: 2 disinterested witnesses · Holographic Wills: Recognized (must be signed and written by hand) · Notary Required: No (recommended for self-proving)
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Last Wills and Testaments in California
California wills are governed by the California Probate Code. In California, a written will must be signed by the testator (or by someone else in the testator's presence and direction) and at least two disinterested witnesses (Cal. Prob. Code § 6110). Holographic (handwritten) wills are recognized if the signature and material provisions are in the testator's handwriting.
California does not require notarization for a will to be valid, but a self-proving affidavit signed before a notary is highly recommended to expedite probate.
California Last Will and Testament — Quick Reference
| Requirement | California Rule |
|---|---|
| Witnesses Required | 2 disinterested witnesses |
| Holographic Wills | Recognized (must be signed and written by hand) |
| Notary Required | No (recommended for self-proving) |
| Minimum Age | 18 years old |
California Legal Requirements
- Testator must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind.
- Must be in writing (handwritten or typed).
- Signed by the testator and at least two disinterested witnesses who sign in the presence of each other.
California Governing Laws
Read the full text of these laws at Cornell Law School's California legal resources or your state legislature's official website.