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Then you, as the testator (the will creator), and they as witnesses sign affidavits stating who you are and that you signed your will in the presence of witnesses. The process requires a notary who then notarizes your signatures. A self-proving will is readily admitted to probate as valid in Pennsylvania.

In Pennsylvania, the law requires that the testator be at least 18 years old and of sound mind (mentally competent). In addition, the testator must declare that the will is his or hers in front of two witnesses -- and these witnesses must then sign the will in front of the testator.

The decedent's estate is then distributed ing to a formula which is also set forth by law. These "intestacy" laws name the beneficiaries and the amount to which they are entitled. By leaving no will, the estate may be inherited and distributed contrary to the Decedent's wishes.

Pennsylvania wills have been filed with the "register of wills" in each county, where they are recorded in indexed books.

Authenticating Your Will in Pennsylvania If a will is not self-proving, the Register of Wills for your PA county requires witness testimony to validate the will. So, they must authenticate the will before admitting it to probate. Most often, this testimony comes in the form of an affidavit.

The probate process in Pennsylvania begins with filing the deceased's will and a petition for probate with the county Register of Wills office where the deceased resided. If the will is deemed valid, the court will issue Letters Testamentary to the named executor, authorizing them to act on behalf of the estate.