Attestation

Estate Documents

The formal act of witnesses signing a will to confirm they watched the testator sign it and believed the testator was competent.

Attestation is the act of witnesses signing a will after watching the testator sign. It proves the will was executed properly and that the testator appeared to know what they were signing.

Arizona Attestation Requirements

Under A.R.S. 14-2502, a typed will must be signed by the testator and by at least two witnesses who either saw the testator sign or heard the testator acknowledge the signature. Witnesses should be adults who do not stand to inherit under the will.

Self-Proving Affidavit

Most Arizona wills add a self-proving affidavit signed in front of a notary. With this affidavit, the will can be admitted to probate without locating the original witnesses. Holographic wills (handwritten and signed) do not require attestation.