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Is a Will Valid if it’s Not Witnessed?

In North Carolina, only one type of will is valid if it is not witnessed: a holographic will.

A holographic will must be:

  • Handwritten entirely by the person creating it (no typed components).
  • Signed by that person.
  • Clearly expressing their testamentary wishes—what they want to happen after they pass away.

Any other type of unwitnessed will is invalid in North Carolina.

Author Bio

James P. Kelly, ESQ

Paul Yokabitus
Founder & Estate Planning Lawyer

Paul Yokabitus is the founder of Cary Estate Planning, where he helps North Carolina families protect what matters most through wills, trusts, probate, and special needs planning. Known for his “planning, not paperwork” approach, Paul turns complex legal concepts into clear, practical strategies so clients feel informed and confident at every step. He has been recognized as a Business North Carolina Legal Elite attorney and a Super Lawyers Rising Star, and was named to the Triangle Business Journal’s 40 Under 40. A graduate of Campbell University School of Law, Paul lives in the Triangle with his wife, Alix, and their two sons.

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