What notarization and witness requirements apply for renunciation forms in North Carolina probate proceedings?

1. Detailed Answer

When someone named in a decedent’s will or entitled by law to serve as personal representative decides not to serve, North Carolina law lets that person renounce the appointment. The process must satisfy specific signing, witnessing, and acknowledgment rules. If you miss a requirement, the clerk of court may reject your renunciation and force you to qualify or delay the probate process.

Statutory Basis

The requirements appear in N.C. Gen. Stat. § 28A-3-5. This statute directs that a renunciation must be:

• In writing;
• Signed by the person renouncing;
• Under oath; and
• Either witnessed by two individuals or acknowledged before an authorized officer.

See N.C. Gen. Stat. § 28A-3-5: ncleg.gov/GS_28A-3-5

Signature and Oath

The nominee must sign the renunciation under oath. If you choose the witness route, two people must watch the signature and sign themselves. Those witnesses do not need to be probate clients or relatives, but they must be adults and should not stand to inherit under the will.

Option 1: Two Witnesses

• Both witnesses must see the person renounce in real time.
• They sign the form, print their names and addresses, and affirm the signature is genuine.
• This route avoids notarization but still proves that the renouncing party swore to the act.

Option 2: Acknowledgment Before an Officer

• Have the renouncing party appear before a notary public, clerk of superior court, or another officer authorized under Chapter 10B or Chapter 47 of the North Carolina General Statutes.
• The officer verifies identity and administers an oath or affirmation.
• The officer completes an acknowledgment certificate under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47-3: ncleg.gov/GS_47-3.

Filing the Renunciation

Once signed, witnessed, or acknowledged, the original renunciation form goes to the clerk of superior court in the county where probate is pending. The statute does not allow fax or email filing for originals. After the clerk accepts your form, they will appoint the next eligible person.

2. Key Points to Remember

• Renunciation must be in writing under oath (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 28A-3-5).
• Choose either two subscribing witnesses or an official acknowledgment before a notary or clerk.
• Witnesses should be adults with no direct financial stake in the estate.
• If you use a notary, the certificate must follow N.C. Gen. Stat. § 47-3 and Chapter 10B rules.
• File the original in the clerk’s office—no electronic substitutes for originals.
• Timely filing keeps your renunciation effective and advances the probate process.
• Clerks will not accept renunciations that lack proper oath, signature, or certification.

Conclusion & Call to Action

Renouncing a personal representative appointment involves more than just handing in a form. North Carolina law sets clear steps for signature, oath, witness, and acknowledgment. Pierce Law Group’s attorneys guide clients through each requirement, ensuring your renunciation meets statutory standards and avoids delays. If you need help with a renunciation or any probate matter, contact our experienced attorneys today by emailing intake@piercelaw.com or calling (919) 341-7055.