Codicil (will)

A codicil is a document that amends, rather than replaces, a previously executed will. Amendments made by a codicil may only add or revoke a few small provisions (e.g., after something is sold or bought), or completely change the majority of the devises and bequests. Each codicil must contain the same legal requirements as the original will, such as the signatures of the testator and two or three disinterested witnesses.

When confronted with a testamentary document that was executed after the date of the original will, a probate court may need to decipher whether the document is a codicil, or a new will. Generally, if the second document does not make a complete disposition of the testator's property, it will be presumed to be a codicil. A prudent testator will avoid this problem by clearly labeling the document.

In some areas, a witness to the execution of the codicil may not be a beneficiary of the will.

Other than a codicil, the only other way to modify a will is to write a new one and revoke previous wills.