What characterizes a holographic will?

A holographic will is characterized by being written entirely in the testator's own hand, which means that the individual creating the will must pen it themselves without the assistance of typed text or formal witness signatures. This personal authorship is what distinguishes holographic wills from other types of wills, as they often have more flexible legal requirements in some jurisdictions, allowing for validity even without the conventional formalities typically associated with will creation.

The requirement for the will to be handwritten serves to affirm the testator's intent and ensures that their wishes are clearly expressed in their own handwriting. This personal touch is vital in confirming the authenticity of the document, as it helps to establish that it reflects the true desires of the individual rather than being a product of someone else's influence or misunderstanding. While there are various legal nuances and specific requirements for the acceptance of holographic wills that can vary between jurisdictions, the essence lies in the handwritten nature of the document itself.