New Jersey Assembly Bill A5772

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 6/12/25
• Refer: 6/12/25

Caption

The "Uniform Electronic Wills Act"; authorizes electronic wills.

Impact

The introduction of electronic wills is expected to have a significant impact on state laws pertaining to testamentary documents. It grants individuals greater flexibility and convenience in planning their estates. The law requires that electronic wills must be readable as text at the time of signing and mandates signatures from the testator and at least two witnesses, although it does not allow for remote witnessing. This stipulation aims to ensure that the will is executed in a secure manner while maintaining the integrity of the process.

Summary

A5772, known as the Uniform Electronic Wills Act, introduces a framework for the legal recognition of electronic wills in the state of New Jersey. This bill specifies that electronic wills are valid and perform the same legal function as traditional, paper-based wills, provided they comply with the requirements outlined within the legislation. This move aligns with evolving digital practices and aims to simplify the process of estate planning in a technology-driven world.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding A5772 may stem from concerns about the security and potential misuse of electronic wills. Stakeholders may argue about the adequacy of protections against fraud and whether electronic wills adequately preserve the intentions of the testator. Advocates for traditional wills may express worries that rapid technological changes could lead to confusion or disputes over the validity of electronic signatures. Moreover, the requirement for in-person witnessing could pose accessibility challenges for some individuals who wish to utilize electronic wills.