Can a Will Be Revoked in Connecticut?

Yes. If you have created a will and your circumstances have changed, you have the legal right to revoke it in Connecticut. Life evolves, so should your estate plan. Whether you have new family members, different assets, or simply a change in mindset, it is important that your documents reflect your current wishes.

At Harper Law, we help individuals and families revise and update their estate plans to make sure everything still aligns with their goals. Here is how revoking a will works in Connecticut and what you should consider when making changes.

What Does It Mean to Revoke a Will?

Revoking a will means legally canceling a previous will so that it no longer has effect. You might want to revoke a will completely or simply make changes to part of it. Either way, Connecticut law allows for a few clear methods to do this, each with its own legal requirements.

Option One: Express Revocation

One of the most straightforward ways to revoke a will is to clearly state your intent in writing. This can be done in a written declaration or in a new will. As long as the document follows the same legal formalities as a will, such as being properly signed and witnessed, it is valid.

If you use this method, be sure to make copies available to your executor or attorney and destroy any known copies of the previous will to avoid confusion.

Option Two: Create a New Will

This is the most common approach. When you create a new will, it should include language that explicitly revokes all prior wills. This makes your intentions clear and helps prevent legal disputes later on.

A new will also gives you a fresh start to make sure all aspects of your estate plan reflect your current life and relationships.

Option Three: Physical Destruction

Physically destroying the will is another way to revoke it. This includes tearing it up, burning it, or otherwise destroying the document with the intent to revoke it. It is important that the destruction be intentional; accidental damage or loss does not qualify.

If you use this method, destroy all copies as well, and consider putting your intention in writing to avoid any disputes among heirs or beneficiaries.

What If You Only Want to Make a Small Change?

You might not need to revoke your entire will. If your changes are minor, such as updating a beneficiary or changing an executor, you can make those updates through a codicil. A codicil is a legal amendment to your will and must follow the same formalities as a full will.

Codicils are useful when your will is mostly accurate but needs a small adjustment. However, if you have several changes, creating a new will is often cleaner and less confusing.

Why Updating Your Will Matters

Wills are not just legal documents they are personal statements of your wishes. If your current will no longer reflects what you want for your family, your property, or your legacy, then now is the time to take action.

Whether you want to revoke your will entirely or simply revise a few sections, taking the time to make those changes ensures your loved ones are protected and your intentions are honored.

Let Harper Law Help You Make the Right Changes

Updating or revoking a will does not have to be overwhelming. At Harper Law, we work with Connecticut families to keep estate plans current and effective. If you are unsure whether your current will still meet your needs, we are here to help you review it and decide the best next step.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation and make sure your estate plan truly reflects your wishes.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult an attorney for specific legal guidance.