What are the legal requirements for making a valid will?
In Alaska, the legal requirements for making a valid will are specified in Title 13, Chapter 11.01 of the Alaska Statutes. A will must be in writing, under the testator’s hand, and signed by the testator or by some other person in his/her presence and by his/her direction. Additionally, the will must be attested and subscribed by two or more credible witnesses, in the presence of the testator. Witnesses must be of sound mind, of legal age, and must have seen the testator sign the will. Additionally, witnesses must be able to testify that the testator was competent and was signing the will of his/her own free will. If an individual is unable to sign a will themselves, then two disinterested witnesses must be present, along with a notary public, and must corroborate the circumstances of the signature of the will. All witnesses must certify that the testator is of sound mind and is signing of his/her own free will. The will must also be dated and state the place of residence of the testator. Furthermore, the will must include a signature box for each witness, and a place for the notary public to affix his/her seal and signature. The testator must also make sure that the will meets the specific requirements in the Alaska Statutes. Despite the legal requirements, it is always strongly recommended that anyone wanting to make a valid will contact an experienced and qualified attorney to ensure that their will is properly executed and all of the applicable laws and requirements are followed.
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