Wyoming Last Will and Testament

When it comes to a Wyoming last will and testament, the state’s probate courts oversee the division of property and estates. The court handles estate and property divisions per guidelines set forth by the testator (or the person who made the will).

A Wyoming will details what happens to an individual’s property after death. In Wyoming, the last will and testament must be created by someone 18 years or older. The testator must be of sound mind or someone who has not been deemed incompetent in any previous legal proceedings. They must present the document in writing. Wyoming does not recognize or accept oral wills.

A Wyoming last will and testament template may make a will. However, it is not required.

If changes are needed to the last will and testament form, Wyoming requires an amendment – called a codicil – to be included and signed in the same manner as the rest of the document. The testator must add the codicil (and have it witnessed) before their death.

Wyoming Last Will and Testament Template

Requirements for a Will to be Valid in Wyoming

A will guarantees that your money and property are distributed according to your wishes following your death. For a will to be valid in Wyoming, the testator must follow specific guidelines:

• Divide the desired property between inheritors
• Choose an executor
• Choose a guardian if children are present and underage
• Choose a manager for your children’s property
• Sign the will in front of at least two witnesses
• Two witnesses sign the will (they must not be beneficiaries of the will)

These requirements are essential for a valid will. The state of Wyoming handles all wills through the probate courts.

Notarized Will in Wyoming

Wyoming does not require a notary’s signature for the will to be valid. However, a notary’s signature makes the will considered self-proved. A self-proved will can be admitted to the court without witness testimony, speeding up the probate process.

Cost to Create a Will in Wyoming

While a free last will and testament in Wyoming might be untenable, a simple Wyoming will template allows the process to move forward at a reasonable price. Some attorneys charge hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on the complexity of the content.

A testator can create their own will in Wyoming. One can typically find simple resources to guide them in the process. If all state requirements are followed, the court must accept the will as legal and valid.

FAQs

Wyoming requires two competent witnesses to testify in court concerning what they saw in signing the will.

In Wyoming, a testator may write their own will. The testator and two witnesses must sign the will. A consultation with a lawyer may be advisable for more complicated circumstances.

If all legal requirements noted above are met, Wyoming accepts handwritten wills or a holographic.

No, the law does not require everyone to have a will. Although, it is a valuable tool. Without a will, Wyoming laws would govern the distribution of your property and financial resources.

Intestacy laws come into play, which requires that a person’s property is divided according to state laws.