Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

California, will.

Does a simple CA will require notorization, or simply witnesses, and how many?


Asked on 10/09/02, 4:40 pm

3 Answers from Attorneys

Chris Johnson Christopher B. Johnson, Attorney at Law

Re: California, will.

The will requires witnessing by two people who are not mentioned in the will.

If the will is in the maker's handwriting, it needs only the maker's signature, with no witnesses; this is called a holographic will.

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Answered on 10/09/02, 6:08 pm
Karla Shippey Law Offices of Karla Shippey

Re: California, will.

California requirements are as follows:

Holographic will (in the handwriting of the person making the will--the testator): no witnesses required.

Other types of wills: 2 witnesses required; many attorneys advise 3 witnesses to ensure availability of at least 2 witnesses during probate proceeding.

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Answered on 10/15/02, 2:11 pm
Ken Koenen Koenen & Tokunaga, P.C.

Re: California, will.

Wills are not notorized. The will should be signed in front of two witnesses, who are not beneficiaries, and then signed by them.

Depending on the significance of the estate, it would be wise to inquire about a living trust.

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Answered on 10/09/02, 4:49 pm


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