Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in California

Your information about a "handwritten" will is only one possible way to draft a will. If it is typewritten and has the proper formalities it can be valid.

I would be very hesitant about using a paralegal unless there was a minimal estate. Paralegals cannot give legal advice. They can only fill out forms for you.

I would go one step further than what Mr. Donner told you. Paralegals are breaking the law by engaging in the unauthorized practice of law, unless they are supervised by a licensed attorney.

There are two types of valid wills in California. The first kind, that you refer to, is known as a holographic will. To be a valid holographic will, all of the material terms and the signature must be in the handwriting of the testator. (The one making the will.)

The other type of valid will, can be typed, and most usually are. To be valid, this will must be attested. That means the witnesses sign a statement that they either witnessed the testator sign the will, or the testator acknowledged in their presence that the signature was his.

The fact that the witnesses are deceased are a proof problem if the will is challenged, but it does not automatically invalidate the will. I suggest you speaking to a probate attorney, instead of a paralegal.