Flashcards Studio

Jamal validly executed a formal will in 2022 leaving his estate equally to his two children. In 2026, after one child stopped speaking to him, Jamal typed a document on his laptop titled "My New Will." The document stated, "I revoke my 2022 will. I leave my entire estate to my daughter Mina." Jamal printed the document, signed it, scanned the signed page, and emailed the scan to Mina with the message, "This is the final signed will. Keep it safe." No witness signed the document.
Three weeks later, Jamal texted his lawyer, "I finally fixed my will. Mina gets everything now." Jamal died before meeting the lawyer. The state has adopted a harmless-error rule allowing a document to be treated as a will, codicil, revocation, or alteration if clear and convincing evidence shows the decedent intended that result.
Should the 2026 document be given effect despite the lack of witnesses? Discuss whether it can operate as a will, codicil, revocation, or alteration of the 2022 will.