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  • Legacy Lexicon
A holographic will is a handwritten and testator-signed document and is an alternative to a will produced by a lawyer. Being of sound mind is a crucial provision in determining the validity of a holographic will. Some states do not recognize holographic wills. 08 Jul
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Legacy Lexicon

Holographic Will: Definition and State Requirements

After deliberating for almost one hour, jurors found that a handwritten will, discovered under a sofa cushion by Franklin’s niece after the singer’s death, was signed by the music legend in 2014 and does show her intent. 11 Jul
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Celebrity Estates, Curated Content

Jury Reaches Verdict in Battle over Aretha Franklin’s Estate

Aretha Franklin’s Handwritten Last Wishes: a Tale of Two Wills 06 Jul
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Celebrity Estates, Curated Content

Aretha Franklin’s Handwritten Last Wishes: a Tale of Two Wills

Just because the law allows for a testator to hand-write their own will does not make it a good idea, as a recent court decision shows. Even a harmonious family is likely to end up in court, seeking confirmation that the handwritten document was indeed a valid Holograph Will.  30 Mar
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Common Mistakes, Curated Content

Handwritten Will Declared Invalid by Ontario Judge

McWills? Yes! Will Written on a McDonald’s Napkin May be Enforceable | Curated Content | Strange Bequests | Estates Gone Wrong 07 Jan
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Bizarre Bequests, Curated Content

McWills? Handwritten Will on McDonald’s Napkin Ruled Enforceable

Dying Saskatchewan Farmer’s Will Goes Down in History | Curated Content | Strange Bequests | Estates Gone Wrong 25 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Bizarre Bequests, Curated Content

Saskatchewan Farmer’s Will Goes Down in History

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Recent:

A will is intended to provide clear instructions about the distribution of a person’s property after death. But what happens when an important clause is missing? This recent Ontario court case is a useful reminder of the difficulties that can arise...

What Happens When a Will is Missing an Important Clause?

In many cases, an executor’s first instinct is not to call a lawyer. It is to ask Google. The problem? Google can provide thousands of answers, many of which are incomplete, inaccurate, or based on another jurisdiction. Executors need practical guidance tailored to the particular estate they are administering.

Cautionary Guidance for Executors: Google at Your Own Risk!

Many people hear “executor” and think it means reading the will and writing a few checks. In reality, executors can face personal liability. Find out exactly what you're agreeing to, before you agree...

Agreeing To Serve As Executor: Not As Simple As It Sounds

Holograph wills and codicils are often viewed as a simple and inexpensive way to record testamentary wishes. Ironically, the very simplicity that makes holograph codicils attractive can also make them extraordinarily vulnerable...

Ontario Case Study: The Hidden Risks of a DIY Codicil

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