Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Michigan
validating a do-it-yourself will
What do you have to do to make sure a do-it-yourself will is legal and valid.
2 Answers from Attorneys
Re: validating a do-it-yourself will
I strongly urge you not to do a do-it-yourself will, as they are frequently litigated, as the courts/heirs/lawyers, don't know what they mean.
Having said that, if you prepare one by hand, it has to be in your own writing, signed and dated. A handwritten will does not have to be witnessed.
A typed will, must be signed in front of two witnesses and dated. Michigan has a form statutory will, that in a family situation, if followed (don't make ANY changes to the form) is usually valid, although I have had to litigate those too.
Pat Prince
Re: validating a do-it-yourself will
Follow the directions that come with the kit. However, I am not just saying this. There is no substitute for an experienced lawyer writing your will. Lawyers are so inxpensive nowadays that you should be able to get a simple will done for $150 and it is money well spent.
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