Arkansas Last Will and Testament

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An Arkansas last will and testament is a document in which an individual, called the “testator,” describes how they intend for their property to be divided after their death. While state law determines the distribution of property after death if there is no will, a last will and testament makes it possible for a person to decide for themselves who gets what property.

To be valid, a last will and testament template in Arkansas must identify the testator, the beneficiaries, and the property devised to each beneficiary. A testator can use a free last will and testament template in Arkansas to make their own will, as long as the form meets the legal signing requirements.

Arkansas Last Will and Testament Template

Arkansas Signing Requirements

An Arkansas last will and testament must be signed by the testator and at least two witnesses. The testator and all witnesses must be present at the time of signing, sign in the presence of one another, and must watch one another sign the will.

The testator and witnesses must also sign a testamentary affidavit. Each person swears that they witnessed the will’s signing in the presence of the testator and other witnesses. This affidavit may be signed and notarized by an Arkansas notary public, but notarization is not required.

Changing a Will in Arkansas

Changing a will in Arkansas can be accomplished in two ways. First, the testator may execute a codicil, which is a legal amendment to a will. Alternatively, the testator may make an entirely new will that expressly revokes or contradicts the terms in the original will that the testator wishes to change. They may then destroy the original will, but its destruction is not required.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Here are a few common questions about last will and testament forms in Arkansas.

A last will and testament template in Arkansas is valid so long as it identifies the testator and the beneficiaries, describes the division of property, and is signed by the testator in the presence of two witnesses who also sign in the presence of one another and the testator. A testator may use any last will and testament template as long as the basic requirements are met.

A notary public may notarize a last will and testament form in Arkansas. However, notarization is not required as long as the other signing requirements are met.

In Arkansas, any person over the age of eighteen who is of sound mind may make a last will and testament. A person may use a legally compliant will template in Arkansas to make their own will.

Yes, handwritten wills are legal in Arkansas. In fact, a handwritten will may be valid even without the signature of two witnesses, provided that three disinterested witnesses can verify the handwriting of the deceased testator.