Colorado Last Will and Testament Template

What Is a Last Will and Testament?

Colorado defines a will as “includes a codicil and any testamentary instrument that merely appoints an executor, revokes or revises another will, nominates a guardian, or expressly excludes or limits the right of an individual or class to succeed to property of the decedent passing by intestate succession.” (§ 15-10-201(59))

Requirements

To execute a valid will, individuals must:

• Be mentally sound and at least eighteen (18) years of age. (§ 15-11-501)
• The will must be signed by at least two competent witnesses who observe the signing or acknowledgment of the will. (§ 15-11-502(1)(b))
• The will must be in writing. (§ 15-11-502(1)(a))

Filing

Colorado does not mandate the filing of wills during a person’s lifetime. That said, probate courts may offer the option to securely deposit a will for safekeeping.

Sources

1. 1. § 15-10-201(59)
   2. § 15-11-501
   3. § 15-11-502(1)(b)
   4. § 15-11-502(1)(a)