California Real Estate Practice Exam

How can a testator make a minor alteration to their will?

1. By rewriting the entire will

2. By issuing a new will

3. By adding a codicil

4. By oral modification

The correct answer is: By adding a codicil

The correct way for a testator to make a minor alteration to their will is by adding a codicil. A codicil is a legal document that modifies, adds to, or revokes provisions of an existing will without the need to rewrite the entire will. This can be an efficient way to make changes, as it allows the testator to specify exactly what revisions they wish to implement while maintaining the integrity of the original document. Rewriting the entire will is not necessary for minor changes, and it can lead to confusion or errors if not done carefully. Issuing a new will could also complicate matters unnecessarily for simple amendments. Oral modifications are typically not recognized in most jurisdictions, including California, as valid changes to a will, which must conform to formal requirements such as being in writing and properly witnessed. Thus, utilizing a codicil is the most appropriate and legally sound method for a testator to make minor alterations.