Will Shock: Could an unsent text message be a valid will?

In Queensland, a valid will is written and signed by either the person making the will (the Testator) or directed by the Testator in their presence.

The testator must sign or acknowledge the signature in the presence of two or more witnesses and the Testator must sign with the intention of executing the will.

The Queensland Supreme Court Case of Nichol v Nichol[1] recently delivered, saw the Court validate an unsent text message as a will.

A man died in October 2016 and was survived by his wife Julie of one year, who had left him days before. The deceased had a very close relationship with his brother David and nephew Jack. His death was sudden and unexpected.

No formal will was ever found, but when the body was discovered, his mobile phone was nearby.

There was an unsent text message saved to drafts which read:

“Dave Nic you and Jack keep all that I have house and superannuation, put my ashes in the back garden with Trish Julie will take her stuff only she’s ok gone back to her ex AGAIN I’m beaten. A bit of cash behind TV and a bit in the bank Cash card pin 3636 MRN190162Q 10/10/2016 My will”

The Nichol’s case is one of many cases all over Australia where a suicide note, draft will, unexecuted will and electronic wills, such as a Facebook status or Tweet on twitter, have been valid wills. Without the intent, the application for the informal will to be validated won’t proceed.

The judge held[1] that four elements constituted the text being a valid will.

1. Was there a document?
2. If so, did the document purport to reflect testamentary intentions?
3. When the document was created, did the deceased demonstrate that it was his intention that the document operate as his will?
4. Did the deceased have testamentary capacity?

[1] [2017] QSC 220.

Having a valid will is the only reliable way to ensure that your estate goes to family or friends of your choice after you pass away. A valid up-to-date will can help reduce stress for your family and friends, limit the costs to administer your estate and lessen the possibility of disputes over your possessions.

Please call Gold Coast Lawyers at OMB Solicitors to plan your estate.