What happens if the original will is lost?
A copy of a will can be “proven” (i.e., declared valid) in some circumstances. In general, New York State law provides that if the original will was last known to be in the possession of the testator (the deceased), then there is a presumption that the will was revoked. If, however, it was last known to be in the possession of another, such as the attorney who drafted the will, then the copy may be declared valid.
