Revocation, Revival, Amendments, and Will Contests (OH)

Summary

This practice note covers the methods of revoking, reviving, and altering a will in Ohio. The note discusses revocation by subsequent will or other writing, revocation by physical action, revocation by change in marital status or the addition of children, and revocation of joint and mutual wills. The note explains the circumstances under which a prior will may be revived, as well as amendment and republication by codicil. The practice note also covers grounds for will contests in Ohio, such as lack of due execution or testamentary capacity, undue influence, fraud, misrepresentation, and mistake. Finally, the note includes a brief discussion of the interpretation and construction of wills by Ohio courts.