A: A codicil is merely an addition or small change to an existing will – it is not a new will and does not cancel the existing will. If it is valid, a codicil is part of the will. To be valid, a codicil must meet the same legal requirements as the will. For example, a codicil to a holograph will must be completely handwritten by the maker, while a codicil to a conventional will must meet the same legal requirements as the will – for example, signed by the maker and two witnesses.
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