Who are these random people listed on the last page of my will? I do not know them… will these individuals receive something from my estate if their names appear in my will?

In the State of Minnesota, there are only a few requirements to make a valid will: (1) You must be at least 18 years of age and of sound mind; (2) the will must be in writing and you must intend for the document to operate as your will; (3) the will must be signed by you (or by another person at your direction and in your presence); and (4) the will must be witnessed by at least two people over the age of 18 years of age, who must both sign the will.

The individuals listed on the last page of your will are staff from our office who will act as your (independent) witnesses to satisfy one of the requirements to make your will valid in the State of Minnesota. They are solely witnessing your signature and attesting to the fact that you signed the will voluntarily, were of sound mind, and you were not being unduly influenced by someone else to sign your will. The witnesses do not receive any portion of your estate just because they have witnessed your will.