Meeting the signing and witnessing standards established by state law is more important than the appearance of a will. A will scribbled on a napkin can be admitted to probate so long as it contains all of the elements of a valid will. A videotape recording of your final wishes is not valid. The person making the will must sign the will. The person making the will must be competent, not insane, senile, or mentally disabled and not acting under duress or under the controlling influence of another person.
Wills made without lawyers can be legally sound if the proper procedures are followed.
The books and computer software on the market can guide you on issues you might want to address and on proper procedures. For people with relatively simple estates, self-help books and computer software may work fine. This website is not a Law Office and does not practice law. This website offers general legal information and a search engine to help you find your own lawyer. All rights reserved.