In Washington, a valid Will must meet a few important legal requirements to ensure it can be enforced after your death.

In Washington, a valid Will must meet a few important legal requirements to ensure it can be enforced after your death. The person making the Will (the “testator”) must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind. The Will must be in writing and signed by the testator — or by someone else at the testator’s direction and in their presence. In addition, the Will must be witnessed by at least two competent individuals who sign it in the testator’s presence. While notarization is not required for validity, having the Will notarized as a “self-proving” Will can make probate easier by eliminating the need for witnesses to testify later. Because mistakes can easily lead to disputes or even invalidate your Will, working with an experienced lawyer in Washington is the best way to ensure your wishes are carried out smoothly.

If you have questions about making a Will, give us a call at 253.858.5434 to set up an appointment today. We proudly represent clients throughout Washington and Idaho and are available to meet in person, by phone, or via video conference.