Simple English definitions for legal terms
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A self-proved will is a legal document that a person creates to outline how they want their assets to be distributed after they die. To make a will self-proved, the person must sign it in front of witnesses and have them sign it as well. This makes it easier for the will to be accepted by a court after the person's death. Self-regulation is when an organization or industry creates rules and standards for itself to follow, without needing outside government oversight. This can help ensure that the organization or industry operates in a fair and ethical manner.
A self-proved will is a legal document that has been signed by the testator and witnesses and is accompanied by a self-proving affidavit. The affidavit is a sworn statement by the witnesses that they saw the testator sign the will and that they believe the testator was of sound mind and not under duress at the time of signing.
John creates a will and has two witnesses sign it. He also has them sign a self-proving affidavit, which is attached to the will. This makes it easier for the will to be admitted to probate court after John's death, as the witnesses will not need to be located and testify to the validity of the will.
Self-regulation is when an organization or industry establishes its own rules and standards and oversees its own compliance with them.
The National Association of Realtors has established a code of ethics for its members and has a system in place for enforcing those ethics. This is an example of self-regulation within the real estate industry.