If the court suspects a will may have been revoked by a later instrument, what should the clerk do?

• A. Refer the matter to the court for resolution.
• B. Automatically revoke the earlier will.
• C. Postpone all proceedings.
• D. Seal the file.

Answer: (A)

When there’s a possible revocation of a will by a later instrument, this is a question that requires a judicial decision, not a clerical action. The clerk’s proper duty is to refer the matter to the court so the judge can evaluate whether the later instrument revoked the earlier will and how that affects probate proceedings. Clerks don’t determine will validity or revoke documents on their own. They also shouldn’t try to postpone proceedings or seal the file as a remedy for revocation questions—the court needs to address the issue through appropriate filings and rulings.