A will should clearly show what someone wants to happen with their property after death. Sadly, there are times when a will might be forged or altered without permission. In Georgia, families who think a will is fake need to know how courts handle these serious claims and what steps they can take to protect their rights.

Spotting Possible Signs of a Forged Will

There are a few clues that might suggest a will is not real. One common sign is a signature that looks different from the person’s usual signature. It may appear shaky or too perfect, almost like it was copied.

Additionally, sudden changes in who receives property or unexpected new beneficiaries can also raise questions. Sometimes, the people who witnessed the will do not remember the signing clearly or seem closely connected to someone who benefits from the new will.

Tools Courts Use to Expose Forgery

When someone challenges a will, Georgia courts look at strong evidence. One important tool is a handwriting expert. This expert compares the signature on the will with other known examples to see if they match. In some cases, the court may also review witness testimony to confirm if the person signed the document and understood it.

Another piece of evidence can come from notary records. In Georgia, notaries keep logs that show when a document was signed and who was present. Sometimes, even digital files like photos or emails help confirm if the signing event happened as claimed.

What Are Your Legal Rights and Remedies?

Under O.C.G.A. § 16-9-1, forgery is a crime, and if a will is found to be forged, the court will void it. Anyone with an interest in the estate can file a challenge. This could be an heir or a person who would receive something under a previous will.

Before probate, a person files a caveat to stop the will. If probate has started, they need to file a petition. There is a ten-day limit for solemn form probate and four years for common form O.C.G.A. § 53-5-21.

Contact Us for Help

At The Williams Litigation Group, we support families who suspect a will is not genuine. We work with handwriting experts and gather strong evidence to protect your loved one’s true wishes. If you have concerns about a will in Georgia, contact us today.