2006-11-21 11:09:41 · 6 answers · asked by Sushi Hound 2 in Politics & Government ➔ Law & Ethics
Ordinarily, no. But it depends upon the law of the state in which you're looking.
Some states may, under certain circumstances, make public wills that are entered into surrogate's courts...and certainly if there's litigation over a will, the will may be entered as evidence in the trial, and thus become a public document.
2006-11-21 15:17:20 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Ones that have been probated are unless they have been subject to a confidentiality order. Call the courthouse or town hall to find out where they are recorded and go from there. You will probably have to go down to the office and make copies yourself. They will have a photocopier there.
If they haven't been probated yet, they are not public.
2006-11-21 11:14:32 · answer #2 · answered by Tara P 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
No, they are not public.
A will (or other testamentary document) does not take effect until the person dies, and the will goes through probate. Until then, it has no legal effect, and can be changed or revoked by the author.
2006-11-21 11:13:54 · answer #3 · answered by coragryph 7 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Once it's been entered into probate, it's public record. You can get it from the courthouse.
2006-11-21 11:14:55 · answer #4 · answered by retired military wife 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
They are not public, and if you aren't the Testator, you have no right to see it. If you want a copy, ask the Testator.
2006-11-21 11:13:31 · answer #5 · answered by open4one 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
From the atty who drew it up. Or the courthouse where is was filed should have a copy as well.
2006-11-21 11:12:12 · answer #6 · answered by Sarah G 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋