What Does a Will Look Like?
What Counts as an Informal Will?
You may be surprised to learn that a will does not always have to be a formal legal document drafted in precise legal language. In some cases, it can consist of one or several documents that clearly express a person’s testamentary intentions. These documents serve the purpose of disposing of property or rights after death.
Examples of Informal Wills
Items that may be recognised as an informal will include:
- Paper documents: Even a torn piece of paper or envelope with handwritten notes, marks, or symbols may be sufficient.
- Audio recordings: A voice memo, tape, or other recording can convey testamentary instructions.
- Visual materials: Maps, plans, drawings, or photographs may sometimes indicate intent.
- Digital documents: A file such as a Word document saved as “will.doc” may be considered by the court as a testamentary document.
Key Point
The form of the document is less important than the evidence that the person intended it to operate as a will. Informal wills can take many shapes — what matters most is that they clearly convey the testator’s intentions.
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