Last Will and Testament in District of Columbia
A simple will form for straightforward estates. A will is valid only if it is signed and witnessed exactly as your state requires (below); one that is not executed correctly may be ignored by the court. Larger estates, blended families, trusts for minor children or business interests are worth a lawyer's review.
What District of Columbia law says
| Requirements for a valid will | A person must be at least 18 years old, of sound and disposing mind, and capable of making a deed or contract. The will must be in writing and signed by the will-maker (or by another person in the will-maker's presence and at their express direction), and attested and signed in the will-maker's presence by at least two credible witnesses. Electronic wills under the Uniform Electronic Wills Act (Title 18, Chapter 9) follow their own rules. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: D.C. Code §§ 18-102, 18-103 |
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| Handwritten (holographic) wills | No. D.C. law has no exception for handwritten wills: a will that is not attested by two witnesses is void. The only exceptions are limited oral (nuncupative) wills under § 18-107 and electronic wills under the Uniform Electronic Wills Act. Re-verified 2026-10-27. Source: D.C. Code § 18-103 |
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LAST WILL AND TESTAMENT OF [your full name]
I, [your full name], of [city, county and state], being of sound mind, make this my will and revoke all earlier wills and codicils.
1. Executor. I name [executor name] as personal representative (executor). If they cannot serve, I name [alternate executor name].
2. Specific gifts. I give [item or amount] to [beneficiary name].
3. Everything else. I give the rest of my property to [beneficiaries and shares]. If a beneficiary does not survive me by 30 days, their share goes to [alternate beneficiary].
4. Guardian. If I have minor children, I name [guardian name] as guardian, and [alternate guardian name] as alternate.
Signed on [date signed] at [city and state]. Signature: ____________________
Witnesses: we signed below in the presence of the person making this will and of each other, as required by state law. Witness 1: [witness 1 name and address] ____________ Witness 2: [witness 2 name and address] ____________
[Notary or self-proving affidavit, if your state provides one]
Last Will and Testament for other states · District of Columbia tenant rights
General legal information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules can differ; check the linked official source or talk to a lawyer about your situation.