What is a self-proving affidavit?

A self-proving affidavit, used in most states, is a document that goes along with a will that allows a probate court to easily accept it as the true will of a person who has died. The affidavit is signed by two witnesses, under penalty of perjury, who observed the will maker (testator) sign the will and heard the will maker say that it was his/her will.

A self-proving affidavit makes it unnecessary for your witnesses to appear in court to …

Where should a will be kept?

After a will is executed, it should be stored in a safe place where it can easily be found. If a bank or trust company is named as executor, it may be possible to deposit the will there for safekeeping. A safe deposit box is another good place to store a will, with a copy located in a home file. Sometimes the attorney who drew the will can store it in an office safe.

It is not a good idea …