I can’t find an original will, I only have a copy. What can I do?

Often a person cannot locate an original will, either because it has been lost or because the testator put the will in a “safe” place that cannot be found after his or her death. Michigan law addresses this type of situation. If an original will cannot be found, a copy can be admitted to probate under certain circumstances. While you can file an application to admit an original will administratively, you cannot file an application for a will copy. Instead, you have to file a petition with the probate court and schedule a hearing. If the court finds by clear and convincing evidence that the will copy is a replica of the testator’s original will, the court will admit the will copy and the estate will be probated.