Beginning January 1, 2026, North Carolina estate planning and probate attorneys will have a new tool to offer clients. These can potentially reduce litigation surrounding lost wills and other complications related to storing and accessing the original will. Background Although North Carolina recognizes several types of wills, practitioners typically draft and execute what is known as a self-proved attested will. This involves an affidavit of the two required witnesses and the testator, made before a notary public, in which the testator declares the will to be his or her last will in the presence of the witnesses and notary. The … Continue reading →