Safekeeping of Wills

Safekeeping of Wills

The testator or the testator’s agent may deposit a will with a Recorder for safekeeping. There is a $10 filing fee. The will must be sealed and kept confidential. During the testator’s lifetime, a deposited will must be delivered only to the testator or to a person authorized in a writing signed by the testator to receive the will. A conservator may be allowed to examine a deposited will of a protected testator under procedures designed to maintain the confidential character of the document to the extent possible, and to ensure that it will be resealed and kept on deposit after the examination. Upon being informed of the testator's death, the recorder shall notify any person designated to receive the will and deliver it to that person on request; or the Recorder may deliver the will to the appropriate court. For more information on safekeeping of wills see NDCC 30.1-11.1.