Which term is defined as an addition to a will?

Which term is defined as an addition to a will?

• A. Estoppel
• B. Codicil
• C. Leashold Estate
• D. Life Estate Pur Autre Vie

Answer: (B)

A codicil is an amendment to a will. It’s a separate document that modifies, revokes, or adds provisions to an existing will without replacing it. To be valid, it must be executed with the same formalities as the will itself—testator signs it, and it’s witnessed according to state law. Once it’s properly executed, the codicil becomes part of the testamentary plan and takes effect at death, altering the dispositions or appointments in the original will as specified. The rest of the will remains in force unless the codicil expressly revokes or changes those parts. This concept is distinct from other terms here: estoppel is a legal barrier preventing a claim based on prior actions; a leasehold estate is a tenant’s interest under a lease; and a life estate pur autre vie is a life estate measured by someone else’s life, not an amendment to a will.

A codicil is an amendment to a will. It’s a separate document that modifies, revokes, or adds provisions to an existing will without replacing it. To be valid, it must be executed with the same formalities as the will itself—testator signs it, and it’s witnessed according to state law. Once it’s properly executed, the codicil becomes part of the testamentary plan and takes effect at death, altering the dispositions or appointments in the original will as specified. The rest of the will remains in force unless the codicil expressly revokes or changes those parts. This concept is distinct from other terms here: estoppel is a legal barrier preventing a claim based on prior actions; a leasehold estate is a tenant’s interest under a lease; and a life estate pur autre vie is a life estate measured by someone else’s life, not an amendment to a will.