What the rule says
Maine provides two pathways to a valid will under the UPC framework (effective September 2019):
Attested wills (Me. Rev. Stat. tit. 18-C, § 2-502)
1. A writing. 2. The testator's signature. 3. Two competent witnesses.
Maine also recognizes notarized wills as alternative.
Harmless-error doctrine (§ 2-503)
Defective documents can be probated with clear and convincing evidence of testamentary intent.
Holographic wills
Maine does not have a separate holographic will statute. Handwritten unwitnessed wills are not recognized as a separate will type.
Self-proving affidavits
Maine recognizes self-proving affidavits under standard UPC framework.
What you can do about it
For a Maine will execution:
- Have the testator and at least two witnesses present OR notarize. - Use the self-proving affidavit. - Sign at the end of the document. - Avoid using beneficiaries as witnesses.
Who this affects most
Maine's framework reduces execution risk through the combination of standard witnessing, notarization alternative, and harmless-error backup.