What does the term 'attestation' refer to in relation to wills?

The term 'attestation' in relation to wills refers specifically to the act of witnessing a person's signing of a will. This is a critical component in the creation of a valid will, as it involves individuals, known as witnesses, who observe the testator (the person making the will) sign the document. The witnesses then typically also sign the will themselves, affirming that they observed the signing. This process helps to ensure the authenticity of the will and can protect it from later challenges in court regarding its validity.

In contrast, the other terms mentioned do not align with the definition of attestation. For instance, a legal document outlining assets refers to the content of a will rather than the witnessing process. The process of challenging a will relates to disputes over its validity or its contents, which occurs after the will has been executed. Recording a will with the state involves submitting the will to a court or local authority, which is a separate step taken typically after the attestation is complete and which formalizes the will's existence but does not represent what attestation itself means. Thus, the correct understanding of attestation is rooted firmly in the witnessing aspect of the will-signing process.