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Simple English definitions for legal terms
reciprocal will
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A quick definition of reciprocal will:
A will is a document that tells people what to do with your things after you die. It's like a wish list for your stuff. There are different types of wills, like ones that are written by hand or ones that are spoken out loud. Some wills are made by more than one person, like a husband and wife. If a will is lost, there are ways to prove what it said. It's important to make a will so that your things go to the people you want them to go to.A more thorough explanation:
A reciprocal will is a type of will where two or more people, usually a husband and wife, establish identical or similar testamentary provisions disposing of their estates in favor of each other. It is also possible for more than two parties to execute mutual wills.
For example, John and Jane are a married couple who execute reciprocal wills. In John's will, he leaves all his property to Jane, and in Jane's will, she leaves all her property to John. This means that when one of them dies, the other will inherit everything.
Reciprocal wills are also known as mutual wills, counter wills, double wills, or mutual testaments.