A will is a document that directs how your estate shall be distributed upon your death. Any adult of sound mind is entitled to make a will. In Arizona, a will should expressly state that it’s your will, should be signed (and dated) by you, and should be signed by two witnesses who won’t inherit anything under the will. Although not required, you and your witnesses should sign an affidavit (sworn statement) before a notary public. A notarized will is a “self-proving” will and avoids the need to prove the validity of the will in court. Handwritten wills, called “holographic” wills, are legal in Arizona. To be valid, a holographic will must be written, dated and signed in the handwriting of the person making the will. However, because their validity must be proven in court, holographic wills should be avoided under most circumstances.
