If you’re handling a loved one’s estate in Colorado and they left a will, you’ll need to validate that will before the probate process moves forward. That means filing specific paperwork with the Colorado probate court to prove the will is authentic and legally valid. This Colorado will validation paperwork guide walks you through exactly what forms are required, when to file them, and how to avoid common delays.

What does “will validation” mean in Colorado?

In Colorado, validating a will means officially confirming it meets state legal requirements: it must be signed by the person who made it (the testator), witnessed by two people who saw the signing, and not revoked or superseded by a later document. The court doesn’t automatically accept a will just because it exists someone must file paperwork asking the court to admit it to probate. That step starts with submitting a petition and supporting documents, not just dropping off the will itself.

When do you need to file will validation paperwork?

You need to file will validation paperwork soon after the person dies typically within 30 days of learning about the death, especially if you’re the named personal representative. You’ll need to act before distributing assets or paying debts. For example, if the deceased owned real estate solely in their name, or had a bank account without a payable-on-death designation, the court must first validate the will before anyone can transfer title or access funds.

What forms are required to validate a will in Colorado?

The main form is the Petition for Formal Probate of Will and Appointment of Personal Representative (JDF 912). You’ll also need to attach a certified copy of the death certificate, the original signed will, and a list of interested parties like heirs, beneficiaries, and creditors. Some counties ask for additional local forms, so it’s worth checking your county’s probate court website. All required forms are listed in our Colorado probate court forms list.

Common mistakes people make with will validation paperwork

  • Filing a photocopy instead of the original will Colorado courts require the original, unless it’s truly lost or destroyed.
  • Misidentifying heirs or leaving out someone who has a legal right to notice, like a child born after the will was written.
  • Not including all required attachments for instance, forgetting the death certificate or missing witness affidavits if the will wasn’t self-proved.
  • Assuming a “self-proving affidavit” means no court filing is needed it speeds things up but doesn’t replace the petition.

How to tell if a will is self-proved in Colorado

A will is self-proved if it includes a notarized affidavit signed by the testator and both witnesses at the time the will was executed. That affidavit eliminates the need to track down witnesses later. If the will doesn’t have one, you may need to submit affidavits from the witnesses or explain why they’re unavailable as part of your filing. Details on acceptable affidavits appear in the legal documents required for the probate process.

What happens after you file the paperwork?

The court reviews your petition and schedules a hearing often within a few weeks. Notice must be sent to all heirs and beneficiaries, and sometimes published in a local newspaper. At the hearing, the judge confirms the will’s validity and appoints the personal representative. If no one objects, this usually takes less than an hour. Once approved, you’ll receive Letters Testamentary official proof you can act on behalf of the estate.

Where to find help if you’re unsure

Some people handle will validation on their own, especially with simple estates and clear documentation. Others work with an attorney, particularly if the will is contested, unclear, or involves complex assets like businesses or out-of-state property. Colorado courts don’t give legal advice, but many offer plain-language instructions and fillable PDF forms. You can also review the full set of Colorado estate paperwork requirements to see what else may apply beyond the initial validation step.

Before filing, double-check that you have the original will, a certified death certificate, completed JDF 912, and a complete list of heirs and beneficiaries. If the will includes a self-proving affidavit, make sure it’s attached. If you’re unsure whether the will meets Colorado’s formal requirements, consider reviewing it with a local probate attorney even a short consultation can prevent re-filing or delays. You can find official Colorado court resources and downloadable forms at the Colorado Judicial Branch Forms page.