What estate planning documents must be witnessed?

In Washington, the state requires any estate planning documents—wills, trusts, and powers of attorney—to be witnessed in order to be valid. Each document must have at least two witnesses who are at least 18 years of age, who are not named in the document, and who have no personal interest in the document. Witnesses must be present at the same time when the document is signed. They must also sign the document in the presence of the signer and of each other in order to be valid. These witnesses must also sign an affidavit with their signature and address. The affidavit must state that the signer willingly signed the document and was aware of what the document states. This affidavit must be notarized by a notary public in order for it to be accepted. In addition to these requirements, it is also important that all parties involved in the estate planning process understand the legal implications of the documents. Documents should be executed with the help of an attorney to ensure that all requirements are met and that the wishes of the signer are properly expressed.

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What estate planning documents must be witnessed?

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