In New York, wills are to be written by individuals of 18 years or more. The testator person writing the will must be of sound mind and must sign the will in the presence of two attesting witnesses. Other than a typed will the NY acknowledges nuncupative (oral) wills which are made by armed forces members while undertaking their naval or military service. The armed force members may also make holographic wills which should strictly be in the testator’s handwriting.
Writing a valid will is one major step towards avoiding issues that may be costly and time-consuming. A will contains the identity of the executor that the testator trusts, appointed legal guardian for the children, and revoking clause if there is a previous will among other things.