Which modification to a will constitutes a valid 7-point formal change?

• A. New will with 7-point formalities
• B. Codicil with 7-point formalities
• C. Partial change with 7-point formalities
• D. Short of 7-point formalities: no change

Answer: (C)

Modifying a will must be done through an instrument that meets the same formal requirements as the will itself. When you want to change only part of a will, the proper vehicle is a codicil. A codicil can amend or revoke specific provisions while leaving the rest of the will intact, and it is valid only if it is executed with the seven formalities required for a will (written document, testator’s signature, at least two witnesses, and the witnesses’ presence and acknowledgment, etc.). This allows a targeted, partial change to be legally effective without rewriting the entire document or revoking unrelated provisions.

A brand-new will could also alter the disposition, but it functions as a separate instrument and typically revokes the prior will in whole or in part, rather than acting as a partial modification to the existing will. If the goal is a partial, legally enforceable change, a codicil executed with the proper formalities is the correct method. Anything lacking those formalities wouldn’t be a valid change.