What is the term for the first section of the will that identifies the testator and states the document is intended as the testator's last will and testament?

• A. Preamble
• B. Codicil
• C. Pretermitted Heir
• D. Pretermitted Child

Answer: (A)

The opening portion that identifies the testator and states that the document is his or her last will and testament is called the preamble. It serves to introduce who is making the will and to declare the instrument’s purpose as the testator’s final will. A codicil, by contrast, is an amendment to an existing will, not the opening section. Pretermitted heir and pretermitted child refer to someone who is unintentionally omitted from a will, not to the introductory clause. Some forms may use “declarations” for this section, but the concept described—identifying the testator and stating the document is the will—fits the preamble.