A codicil is a supplement to a previous will that adds to, modifies, amends, or revokes one or more provisions of the earlier will. Laws regarding codicils vary from state to state and in some states a codicil may not replace an earlier will—but in some states it may.
In Texas, a codicil is a legal instrument used to make changes to an existing will. It can add to, modify, amend, or revoke provisions of the will without the need to draft a new will entirely. However, for a codicil to be valid, it must comply with the same legal formalities as the original will. This means that the codicil must be in writing, signed by the testator (the person making the will), and witnessed by at least two credible witnesses who are present at the same time. Witnesses must be at least 14 years old and should not be beneficiaries in the will. A codicil that meets these requirements can effectively change the terms of the will to which it refers. It's important to note that if there are multiple codicils or significant changes, it may be clearer and more effective to create a new will to avoid any confusion or potential legal disputes after the testator's death.
