What is a will?

A will is a legal document that outlines a person’s wishes upon their death. The individual is known as the “testator”, and the will is created to protect the testator’s estate, which includes their assets, possessions, and investments. In California, the testator must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind, and their signature must be witnessed by two other people who are not beneficiaries named in the will. It is recommended that the testator choose the two witnesses carefully, as they are involved in the probate process after the testator’s death. The will outlines how the testator would like their assets to be divided after their death. The will is typically signed and dated by the testator and two witnesses. If the will is valid, then it is admitted to probate after the testator’s death and the distribution of assets will be handled according to the instructions outlined in the will. If a will is not created, then the testator’s estate will be handled according to California’s state laws, which may not be what the testator would have wanted. In other words, even if someone does not have a will, it is wise to create one in order to protect their assets and possessions as they wish.

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What is a will?

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