In Australia, a man who was despondent after his wife left him drafted a text message to his brother saying that he wanted his brother and nephew to keep all that he had, told him where his cash was stashed, and provided the PIN to his bank accounts, then signed it “my will.” He did not send the message. After the man killed himself, a friend found the unsent message. A court has admitted the text message as the will of the deceased man.
A few points:
1. Although digital wills are around the corner, this would not work in Ohio because it was not witnessed nor signed.
2. Unsent? I find that similar to an unsigned will - there is not enough proof that this is his intent.
3. A court in Australia previously held that a will typed on an iPhone was valid.
4. At this rate, Australian courts will soon declare wills written with all emojis as valid.
Photo Credit: Unknown (news.com.au?)
License: Fair Use/Education
