Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in New York
My wife and I, have written up a will and would like to keep it in a bank locker.
We have not registered it, Is it necessary to register a will?
Asked on 2/06/12, 8:41 am
2 Answers from Attorneys
Michael Markowitz
Michael A. Markowitz, PC
No. There is no requirement to file the will with the Surrogate's Court. However, I would not keep a will in a safety deposit box with the bank since, upon death, the bank immediately stops all access to documents. Also, I hope you and your wife drafted a will using an attorney. If you tried to do it yourself, more than likely the court will find the will invalid.
Mike.
Answered on 2/06/12, 9:09 am
Arnold Nager
Arnold H. Nager, Esquire
You may file a will with the Surrogate's Court for a nominal fee. I agree with the previous attorney that you should use a competent attorney to assist you in drafting a valid will.
Answered on 2/06/12, 11:06 am