What is a fundamental requirement for a validly executed will?

For a will to be considered validly executed, a fundamental requirement is that it must be signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses. This requirement is grounded in the laws governing wills, which aim to ensure that there is clear evidence of the testator's intentions and that those intentions are safeguarded through proper witnessing.

The presence of two witnesses serves multiple purposes: it helps to verify that the testator was of sound mind and acted voluntarily when executing the will, and it can protect against claims of fraud or undue influence. In many jurisdictions, the witnesses must also sign the will to confirm that they witnessed the testator sign it or that the testator acknowledged their signature in their presence.

While notarization, handwriting, and self-proving affidavits may enhance the validity or facilitate the probate process, they are not universally required for a will to be valid. Notarization is not a requirement in all jurisdictions; some jurisdictions recognize an attested will (signed by witnesses) as sufficient without the need for a notary. Similarly, a will can be considered valid if it is handwritten, but this is not a requirement. A self-proving affidavit is a tool to expedite probate but is not essential to the validity of the will itself