A recent NSW case has looked again at the concept of an informal will. Although the case is NSW law, it can inform the position in other states and territories. Because of the tragic circumstances of the will maker’s death, the name has been withheld.

An informal will is one that lacks the required formalities to be considered a valid will. The formalities are designed to ensure the will is a genuine reflection of the will maker’s intentions and has not been corrupted in any way by third parties.