Source data
England and Wales ordinary will execution and witness rules
Sources checked
- 01Choose two witnesses
Choose adult witnesses independent of the gifts in the will. Source 1
- 02Will maker signs
Both witnesses should have a clear view of the will maker and act of signing. Source 1
- 03Witnesses sign
Each signs the same document in the presence of the will maker. Source 1
The will maker and witnesses use the same document and need a clear view at the relevant signing step.
England and Wales ordinary will execution and witness rules
This guide covers the ordinary execution of a written will under the law of England and Wales. Special statutory wills and unusual circumstances have separate procedures.
| Source | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Will maker signs | Two witnesses must be present | Both must have a clear view of the signing | Source 1 |
| Witnesses sign | Sign the same document in the will maker’s presence | Witnesses can sign at different times from each other | Source 1 |
| Beneficiary witnesses the signing | A gift to an attesting witness can be void | Use independent witnesses for the ordinary two-witness route | Source 3 |
| Spouse or civil partner of a beneficiary witnesses | A gift to the beneficiary can be void | The witness interest rule can extend to the witness’s spouse or civil partner | Source 3 |
| A change is made to the will | Follow the signing and witnessing requirements | A change must be properly executed | Source 1 |