Introductory Clause
Identifies the testator or settlor, states intent to create the will or trust, and establishes the document’s scope, effective date, and capacity of the person signing.
A clear will or trust helps ensure your property is distributed per your wishes, appoints trusted fiduciaries, and can reduce probate time and costs. Note that handwritten or improperly executed documents risk contest or invalidation under probate rules.
Colorado wills and trusts are used by individuals of varied wealth, plus legal and financial professionals who prepare or administer estate plans.
An estate attorney prepares or reviews wills and trusts, advises on Colorado probate statutes, and reduces legal risk. They verify execution formalities, draft ancillary clauses (tax, guardianship), and can represent clients in contested proceedings if disputes arise.
The named executor or trustee manages administration tasks after death: filing probate paperwork, locating assets, notifying creditors, distributing property per the will or trust, and accounting to beneficiaries according to Colorado probate procedure.
Identifies the testator or settlor, states intent to create the will or trust, and establishes the document’s scope, effective date, and capacity of the person signing.
Explicitly revokes prior wills and codicils; prevents conflicting older instruments from creating uncertainty during probate or trust administration.
Names executor(s) or trustee(s), provides successor appointments, and grants necessary administrative powers and indemnity to carry out duties.
Specifies beneficiaries, percentage or specific bequests, contingent beneficiaries, and conditions for distribution to avoid ambiguity and litigation.
For minor children, names primary and successor guardians and includes any instructions for guardianship funding or care preferences.
If trusts are included, spells out trust type (revocable/irrevocable), trustee powers, distribution standards, spendthrift protections, and termination conditions.
File when administration begins to appoint a personal representative
Obtain at execution to avoid witness testimony later
Retitle assets promptly after trust execution to effectuate intent
File required federal returns by statutory deadline when applicable
Follow state statute timelines for creditor claim notices during probate
Ensure the signer is of sound mind and competent to execute the document.
Choose two disinterested witnesses who can attest to execution.
Sign and have witnesses sign in the same session to meet attestation rules.
Have a notary acknowledge the will when preparing a self‑proving affidavit.
Capture notarial certificate, date, and jurisdiction for future verification.
Distribute certified or true copies to fiduciaries and counsel as appropriate.
Keep original in secure storage such as attorney vault or safe deposit box.
Inform named executors or trustees where originals are held and how to access them.
Use platforms that support PDF and DOCX formats, provide audit trails, and integrate with common systems for recordkeeping.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication | Email link, SMS code, or advanced verification |
| Witness Fields | Place witness name and signature blocks adjacent to testator signature |
| Notary Integration | Enable RON session or add notary acknowledgement fields |
| Storage | Export signed PDF and retain audit trail |
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | No | No | Yes, limited | Yes, limited |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Envelope Cap | No cap | 100 envelopes/user/year | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | Varies by plan |
A parent creates a will and testamentary trust to provide for minor children
An owner funds a revocable trust and retitles a home into the trust