Is a Handwritten Will Valid in Arizona? | Berk Brief

By Kent Berk on September 15th, 2025 in

When James passed away, his family found a single sheet of paper folded neatly in his desk—a handwritten will dated just a few months earlier. But was it legally valid in Arizona? In this Berk Brief, Kent Berk explains when and how a handwritten (or holographic) will can be valid under Arizona law—and why these types of wills often trigger costly probate disputes. Arizona doesn’t require witnesses for a handwritten will, but two strict requirements must be met:

1️⃣  The material provisions must be in the person’s own handwriting 2️⃣ It must clearly show their intent to create a will by naming beneficiaries or distributing property However, handwritten wills are often challenged due to unclear language, missing legal terms, or suspicious circumstances. We’ve seen cases involving napkin notes, multiple versions, and disputed handwriting—all leading to litigation.

Watch the video below to learn more!

If you’re facing a dispute over a handwritten will, talk to an experienced probate litigation attorney before assuming the will is enforceable. We help clients across Arizona understand their rights and fight for what’s fair. Learn more: https://berklawgroup.com 480.607.7900