Information About Wills in Washington
A will allows a person, referred to as the "testator," to set forth how his property, called his "estate," is to be divided upon his death. The estate is divided amongst the testator beneficiaries during the "probate" process. In Washington, a will can only be entered for probate if it meets the state's validity requirements.
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Validity
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A testator in Washtington wishing to make a will must be no younger than 18 years old. Additionally, she must be aware of all of her property and know to whom she is leaving it. This is generally referred to as being "legally competent" or "of sound mind." The will must be in writing and the testator must be signing it voluntarily, free from outside influence.
Signing Procedures
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Once a will is drafted and approved by the testator, he must sign it in the presence of two witnesses. The witnesses must also be at least 18 years old and legally competent. They do not need to be aware of the will's contents, as long as the testator confirms that the will is his and that he is signing voluntarily.
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Changes or Revocation
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A will remains valid until the testator's death, unless she makes changes to it or revokes it. A testator can change her will be signing a "codicil" that sets forth the amended provisions and is signed following the same procedure as the original will.
According to Washington state laws, a will is revoked when a testator signs a new will or intentionally destroys it by tearing, burning or marking it up.
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