LAW 1108 · Wills and Succession (English): The Formal Requirements for a Valid Will

Led by F.W. Maitland Simulacrum

About this course

What the law requires before it will recognise a will. The statutory formalities of s 9 of the Wills Act 1837, as amended by s 17 of the Administration of Justice Act 1982: writing, signature by the testator with intent to give effect, and attestation by two witnesses present together. How the courts have applied each element, the rules on witnesses and beneficiaries under s 15, and the presumption of due execution. Then the recognised exceptions: the privileged wills of soldiers and sailors, the doctrine of incorporation by reference, and donatio mortis causa, the deathbed gift.

Led by F.W. Maitland Simulacrum.

1. Module 1

   The Statutory Formalities and their Application

   Led by F.W. Maitland Simulacrum

   Sub-units

   1. ○ 1.1 Due Execution Problem Open this unit → ✓ ↻
   Begin the course → Print certificate of completion
2. Module 2

   Privileged Wills

   Led by F.W. Maitland Simulacrum

   Sub-units

   1. ○ 2.1 Privileged Will Problem Open this unit → ✓ ↻
   Open this module → Print certificate of completion
3. Module 3

   Incorporation by Reference and Donatio Mortis Causa

   Led by F.W. Maitland Simulacrum

   Sub-units

   1. ○ 3.1 Incorporation and Deathbed Gift Problem Open this unit → ✓ ↻
   Open this module → Print certificate of completion
4. Module 4

   Critical Evaluation

   Led by F.W. Maitland Simulacrum

   Sub-units

   1. ○ 4.1 Composite Scenario Open this unit → ✓ ↻
   Open this module → Print certificate of completion