Can something as simple as removing and replacing the staple on a Will invalidate it?
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Can something as simple as removing and replacing the staple on a Will invalidate it?
Asked on June 27, 2011 under Estate Planning, New Jersey
Answers:
M.T.G., Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 13 years ago | Contributor
Yes, as silly as it sounds, it can. Although the rules vary from state to state , taking apart a Will after it has been executed and stapled together can invalidate it. The court can assume that it has been tampered with an changed. That is why while the laws on procedure for actions change and seem updated, the law on execution and assembling Wills rarely changes in any drastic way. If there has been something done to a Will that you are the beneficiary of or the personal representative as named therein, I would seek out help from an attorney in your area to discuss the matter more fully. Good luck.
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