The testator must state in the presence of the witnesses that the instrument is his or her will. A signed instrument purporting to be someone's will is not officially recognized until the court having jurisdiction over the instrument declares it to be a valid will after examining it and the circumstances surrounding its execution. The process by which a court determines whether a will is valid is known as probate. A person's age, marital status, and financial holdings weigh heavily into the decision to draft a will. In general, every adult should think about making a will, and the need grows as your assets and family ties increase.
Couples also have each other to think about.
Also, any property going to a minor child in such a situation would be subject to an expensive court-appointed guardianship, which could eat up any inheritance. In addition, in some states, if you were married and childless, your parents could split your property with your spouse. If you are single, with few assets, you probably don't need one. However, most adults should at least consider drafting a will. Even if your assets are modest, if you have minor children, you should at least execute a will in order to name guardians for them if they are left as minors with no surviving parent.