What is a holographic will?

A holographic will is defined as a will that is entirely handwritten and signed by the testator, the person making the will. This type of will is recognized in many jurisdictions as valid, provided that it meets certain requirements like being in the testator's own handwriting and signed by them. The primary advantage of a holographic will is that it allows individuals to create a testamentary document without the need for legal formalities, such as notarization or witness signatures, which can be particularly beneficial in situations where formal estate planning is not feasible.

The other options present types of wills that include various legal formalities which are not characteristic of a holographic will. A will written by a legal professional or executed with witnesses varies in terms of requirements and structure and would not meet the criteria of being solely handwritten. A digital will refers to a modern concept that often includes electronic documentation, which also does not fit the criteria for a holographic will. Understanding the specifics of a holographic will is essential for recognizing how informal arrangements can still meet legal standards in estate planning.