The section 9 formalities that determine whether a will is valid at all — and the rules that govern signatures, witnesses, gifts to witnesses and later alterations.
A will that fails on formalities fails entirely, and the estate passes as if it had never been made. This chapter starts with the nature of a will and the four section 9 requirements, then examines what counts as a valid signature by the testator and the strict rules on attestation by two witnesses. It moves on to the evidential role of the attestation clause, the section 15 rule that strips gifts from witness-beneficiaries and their spouses, and the relaxed regime for privileged wills made by those on active service. It closes with alterations made after execution and how republication by codicil can confirm — but not resurrect — a will.
