Paralegal Advanced Competency Exam (PACE) Practice Exam

What characterizes a holograph will?

1. A will that is witnessed and notarized

2. A will written entirely in the testator's handwriting

3. A combination of handwritten and typewritten documents

4. A document that requires two witnesses to be valid

The correct answer is: A will written entirely in the testator's handwriting

A holograph will is characterized by being written entirely in the testator's handwriting. This means that the will is directly penned by the individual making the will, which often lends to its authenticity, as it reflects the testator's personal intentions and thoughts. Many jurisdictions accept holograph wills as valid even if they are not witnessed or notarized, provided they meet specific criteria like being entirely in the testator's handwritten form. This type of will is often utilized in situations where formalities may be impractical, such as in emergencies or when individuals wish to quickly express their final wishes. The other choices do not accurately describe a holograph will. A will that is witnessed and notarized pertains to formal wills that require validation by additional parties, while a combination of handwritten and typewritten documents refers to a mixed-style will that is not exclusively handwritten. The requirement for two witnesses pertains to the formal requirements for a valid will but does not apply to holograph wills, which can often be valid without any witnesses based solely on the testator's handwriting.