Wills are important documents, and they generally need to conform to state standards to serve their intended purpose. There are several requirements imposed on testators drafting wills in Oregon. The document needs to include appropriate testamentary language. The testator usually needs to sign the document themselves or have another person sign on their behalf if they are physically incapable of signing.
The testator generally needs to be a legal adult. They also need to understand the impact of the document. The law also requires witnesses. Witnesses help affirm that the testator was the party who drafted and signed the documents. They can also help resolve disputes about someone’s mental state at the time of the document signing.
What are the rules for will witnesses in Oregon?
Wills require two witnesses
People drafting or updating their wills do not have to have a notary public present when they sign their wills. However, they do need to have two competent adult witnesses present. Witnesses can help validate the identity and mental state of a testator if there is any controversy about their estate plan after they die.
Technically, just about anyone can serve as the witness to a will signing. However, selecting people who do not have an interest in the estate makes it less likely for people to challenge the will later. If the witnesses are also beneficiaries of the estate, other people may question whether they might have influenced or manipulated the testator.
Drafting a will is often easier when working with a professional familiar with state statutes. People who want to control their legacies may need help putting together legally valid documents.