What is a will codicil?
A will codicil is a document that can be added to a will, or last testament, after the will has been signed. In Alabama, a will codicil must be signed and witnessed in the same manner as any other will. A will codicil provides additional instructions that are not included in the original will. It can add new instructions, update existing ones, or revoke or modify certain provisions. The codicil should mention the date of the original will and its name and incorporate any changes that it makes into the original document. A will codicil can be used to add new beneficiaries, make changes to the executor of the estate, or even revoke a previous instruction. It can also be used to make changes to the conditions of a trust or guardianship, if applicable. It is important to note that a will codicil does not replace a will and should not be used to make major changes to the original will. If major changes to the original will are needed, then the original will should be revoked and a new one created. Making changes to a will is a serious matter and should only be done with the advice of a qualified attorney. This is because the contents of the codicil must be in accordance with Alabama state law in order to be enforceable.
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