A codicil is a method of changing specific terms of a will without creating an entirely new will. The codicil should specifically reference each section of the will to be modified. When a testator wishes to make only minor changes to his or her will, creating a codicil saves time and expense. However, major changes to a will, such as adding new beneficiaries or removing beneficiaries,
. redistributing assets among beneficiaries or changing amount of charitable donations are best achieved by creating a completely new will and revoking any previously made wills. Another case in which a new will is recommended is when multiple codicils have been made over a period of time. The goal is to create a clear and valid will to prevent long, drawn out legal battles regarding inheritance or effectiveness of the document.The same rules that apply to making a last will and testament apply to crafting codicil documents. The codicil must be signed and witnessed in the same manner as the original will. In the past, prior to the computerization of legal forms, codicils were used much more commonly. Today, most estate-planning lawyers recommend creation of a new will rather than using codicils, because of the potential complications codicils may create.Numerous legal document forms can be obtained free of charge online. Please note that many such forms are intended for general informational purposes; it is always recommended to consult an estate-planning attorney regarding any questions about last wills and testaments.http://www.lawdepot.com/contracts/codicil-to-will/?loc=US&pid=googleppc-codicl_us-ft_codicil_c2ft-s-ggkey_forms%20codicil&s_kwcid=forms%20codicil|8852397793LawDepot.com provides many " do-it-yourself" legal resources. The link above will create a codicil based on user-entered answers to questions in a form. The resulting document will then need to be signed, dated and witnessed formally.http://www.4expertise.com/PDF/codicil.pdfThe PDF document found at the above link is a boilerplate form used to construct a codicil. The form provides blanks to fill in for the provisions to be changed in the original will.More reference links: http://www.lawdepot.com/contracts/codicil-to-will/?loc=US&pid=googleppc-codicl_us-ft_codicil_c2ft-s-ggkey_forms%20codicil&s_kwcid=forms%20codicil|8852397793 http://www.4expertise.com/PDF/codicil.pdf
