What is the rule regarding extrinsic evidence in mistakes in a will?

What is the rule regarding extrinsic evidence in mistakes in a will?

• A. Extrinsic evidence is admissible to clarify ambiguities.
• B. No extrinsic evidence may come in.
• C. Extrinsic evidence may be used to alter the will.
• D. Only oral statements may be considered.

Answer: (B)

Extrinsic evidence is not admissible to prove mistakes in a will. The will controls; evidence outside the document cannot be used to correct drafting errors or to alter the dispositive terms. In probate, you resolve disputes by interpreting the will as written, preserving the final expression of the testator’s wishes rather than allowing outside statements to rewrite the instrument.

Extrinsic evidence is not admissible to prove mistakes in a will. The will controls; evidence outside the document cannot be used to correct drafting errors or to alter the dispositive terms. In probate, you resolve disputes by interpreting the will as written, preserving the final expression of the testator’s wishes rather than allowing outside statements to rewrite the instrument.