Updated July 20, 2023
An Alaska self-proving affidavit is an attachment to a last will and testament to confirm that the testator, or will creator, did in fact execute the document within the state-mandated requirements. The main purpose of the affidavit is to shorten and simplify the will’s probate by countermanding the required testimony of the witnesses. The testator and two (2) disinterested witnesses (meaning they cannot be named as beneficiaries in the will) will need to sign the affidavit in the presence of a notary public.
Once the affidavit has been signed and notarized, it must be attached to the will. When the will goes to probate, the affidavit will be admissible as testimony on behalf of the witnesses and, therefore, they will not need to present themselves in court.
Laws
- Statute – AS 13.12.504
- Signing Requirements – Two (2) witnesses and a notary public.