In addition to the individual will, English law also recognises the joint will and the mutual will. However, the contract of inheritance is not recognised in English law. Nevertheless, it is possible to contractually undertake to make a specific testamentary disposition (contract to make a will).
Under English law, a formally valid will can be made under the following conditions:
- Firstly, the testator must have testamentary capacity and be able to understand the content and implications of the will.
- The will must be in writing and must be signed by the testator themselves or by another person on the instructions and in the presence of the testator. The will must also be signed or recognised in the presence of at least two witnesses, who must also sign the will.