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codicil

A codicil is a supplement to a previous will that adds to, modifies, amends, or revokes one or more provisions of the earlier will. Laws regarding codicils vary from state to state and in some states a codicil may not replace an earlier will—but in some states it may.

In Ohio, a codicil is a legal instrument that is used to make changes to an existing will. It allows the testator (the person who made the will) to add to, modify, amend, or revoke provisions of their will without having to draft a new will from scratch. The codicil must be executed with the same formalities as a will, which means it must be in writing, signed by the testator, and witnessed by at least two disinterested witnesses who are present at the same time. The witnesses must also sign the codicil. A codicil that is properly executed has the same legal effect as a will and can indeed replace earlier provisions of a will to the extent that it contains contradictory terms. However, it does not replace the entire will unless it explicitly states that intention. If there are inconsistencies between the original will and the codicil, the provisions in the codicil typically prevail.

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Understanding Codicils: An Essential Guide to Amending Your Will

In the world of wills and estate planning, there's a savvy solution to avoid this hassle, and it's called a codicil. A codicil is like a legal 'P.S.' to your will. It allows you to make specific changes or additions without needing a full rewrite.

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Ohio State Code

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