Are Holographic Wills Valid in Florida?

Question:   I read on the internet that I could handwrite my own will without having the formality of witnesses and that the will would be valid for probate.  Is that true?

Answer:    While you can certainly handwrite your will, in order to be valid in Florida a will must be signed in the presence of two witnesses, who must also sign the will in the presence of the testator and one another.  Some states recognize handwritten or ‘holographic wills’ and excuse the lack of other formalities, such as witnesses, but the Florida Probate Code does not.  If one tries to have a holographic will admitted to probate in Florida that did not comport with the proper formalities of will execution, the decedent’s estate will be distributed according to the laws of intestacy, not the provisions of the invalid will.  If you are concerned that your will or trust may be invalid under Florida law, contact Bach & Jacobs at (941) 906-1231 to have your estate planning documents reviewed by our attorneys.