How do I make sure my will is executed properly?

When making a will in North Carolina, it is important to make sure it is properly executed in order for it to be legally valid. According to North Carolina law, each person who makes a will must sign it in front of at least two witnesses who also sign the document. The witnesses must be at least 18 years old at the time of signing and cannot be beneficiaries of the will. The two witnesses must also sign the will in front of each other. For added security, North Carolina allows its citizens to have a witnessed will notarized. A notary public would also sign and date the will, in addition to the other witnesses. This is not required, but can make the will easier to accept in court. Another critical component of making a will is to make sure it is updated regularly. North Carolina does not recognize an old will if the maker of the will has written a new one. Make sure to update the will at least every five years or within one year of a major life event like marriage, divorce, or the passing of a beneficiary. Having all the proper documents in place, such as a durable power of attorney and medical directive, is also important for making sure your wishes are clearly laid out and legally binding. Finally, make sure your will is filed in the Register of Deeds in the county where you live so that the information is readily available in case of your death. Following these steps can help your will be properly executed and protect your wishes.

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