Posted by SHCALLA on 2/15/05 1:16am
Msg #20641

WILLS

wHAT ARE THE STEPS TO NOTARIZING A WILL?

Reply by Art_MD on 2/15/05 7:02am
Msg #20648

Will are relatively simple. Follow general rules re any notary act per your state. It is best to have witnesses as some state require it. Witnesses should have NO connection with the will. They should have no relationship to the writer of the will. Also, notary should have no connection. i.e. if it a will for my mother in law and my wife is named in the will - I would not notarize it. It's not illegal in MD but it sure could cause some questions if the will is contested.

Art

Reply by Dave_CA on 2/15/05 9:46am
Msg #20658

You don't list your state but if you are in CA don't notarize without instructions from an attorney.

Reply by shcalla on 2/15/05 5:42pm
Msg #20690

Thanks.

Reply by Ernest_CT on 2/15/05 9:06pm
Msg #20718

Check your state's manual!

States differ greatly!

CT notaries should not notarize wills unless they were drawn by attornies.

Reply by PAW_Fl on 2/15/05 9:12pm
Msg #20719

Re: Check your state's manual!

Even if not recommended or mandated, you should be extremely wary about notarizing a will not drawn by an attorney.

Here in FL, we have no guidance on that aspect, but I do not notarize any signatures on any estate planning document or healthcare directive not written or approved by an attorney who practices in that specialty.