Self-Proving Will
A will that includes a special notarized affidavit signed by the witnesses at the time the will is signed. This affidavit allows the will to be admitted to probate without requiring the witnesses to testify in court.
Legal Definition
A will accompanied by an affidavit executed by the attesting witnesses and acknowledged before a notary public at the time of the will's execution, which creates a presumption of proper execution and eliminates the need for witness testimony during probate.
Practical Example
When Helen signs her will, her two witnesses also sign a notarized statement confirming they watched Helen sign. Years later, when Helen dies, the court accepts her will without having to track down the witnesses.