What does the exordium clause do in a will?

The exordium clause in a will serves to identify the testator, affirm their intentions, and revoke any prior wills or codicils. This clause is typically found at the beginning of the will and establishes the authority of the testator to create the document. By revoking previous wills, it ensures that there is no confusion regarding which version is the valid one. This helps to avoid disputes over inheritance and ensures clarity in the distribution of the testator's estate according to their most recent wishes.

The other options provided address different aspects of a will. Details about the financial distribution of the estate are found in the dispositive provisions, while enumerating witnesses occurs in the attestation clause. Legal eligibility of beneficiaries is generally not established in the exordium but may be addressed in other sections of the will. Thus, the primary function of the exordium clause is foundational, as it verifies the testator’s identity and their authority to revoke previous wills, making it a critical component of any legally binding will.