What is the significance of having witnesses sign a will?

Having witnesses sign a will is significant primarily because it ensures that the document is legally binding. The requirement for witnesses acts as a safeguard that helps confirm that the testator (the person making the will) has the necessary capacity to make the will and that they are doing so voluntarily and without undue influence. This formalities add a layer of legitimacy to the will, which is essential for its validity in a court of law.

Witness signatures also provide a means of corroboration in case any disputes arise regarding the will's authenticity. Their presence at the time the will is executed is crucial, as it demonstrates that the will was executed in accordance with legal standards, thus reducing the likelihood of successful challenges to its validity during probate proceedings.

While the other options touch on different aspects of estate planning and will execution, they don't capture the primary legal requirement fulfilled by having witnesses. For instance, verifying the identity of the executor or preventing fraud claims may be important considerations, but the main purpose of the witness requirement is to create a legally binding document that can withstand scrutiny in a court of law. Distributing assets immediately is also not directly related to the role of witnesses in the will process; rather, it's contingent on the will being deemed valid and probated.