What is a codicil?

A codicil is just a fancy name for an amendment to an existing Last Will and Testament (will).

Years ago when wills were handwritten (yes that was many years ago!) or prepared on a typewriter, codicils were more prevalent since no one wanted to re-write or re-type an entire will to only make a minor revision, like naming a new guardian or trustee for your children. It was much easier to simply amend the old will by adding a one-page codicil.

Codicils are still used today, but just not as frequently since it is just as easy to reprint the entire will that has been saved on a computer than it is to prepare a codicil. Both the new will and codicil still need to be signed to meet the statuary requirements in New Jersey, which is to be witnessed by two people and notarized to make it self-proving.

Sometimes I will use a codicil if I am amending a will drawn by a different attorney that is otherwise acceptable to the client. In that case, rather then re-type the entire will, I may just leave the old will in place and add the codicil. However, if it is a will I previously drew up, I would probably recommend revising the will and having the client sign a new will and by-pass adding a codicil all together. The fee would be the same.

You can protect your family and appoint a guardian and trustee for your minor children very easily by doing a simple will. All it takes is a phone call or text to Serra Law Group (908) 534-1985. 

Our on-line platform called Smart Law eliminates the hassle of schlepping into an attorney's office like in the old days and streamlines the intake process, so you never have to leave your home. And it can all be done in the palm of your hand on your phone at a fraction of the cost of a traditional law firm. The gap between knowing and doing has never been slimmer!

Act now and feel good you did something extremely important for the protection of your family. 

Why use a form when you can have a firm!

Book Your Free Consultation with us today!