What does "testamentary capacity" refer to?

"Testamentary capacity" specifically refers to the mental ability of the testator (the person creating the will) to understand the significance of making a will and the implications of its contents. This includes comprehending the nature of their assets, recognizing the people involved (such as beneficiaries), and understanding the impact of their decisions regarding the distribution of their estate upon their death.

Demonstrating testamentary capacity ensures that the testator can make informed choices and that those choices are reflective of their true intentions. It is a fundamental requirement in wills and probate law because a will created by someone lacking this capacity may be contested and deemed invalid.

The other aspects mentioned in the other options, such as managing an estate, designating an executor, or trusting witnesses, are relevant in different contexts but do not directly define testamentary capacity as a legal standard. The emphasis is squarely on the mental understanding required to create a valid will, which makes option B the most accurate reflection of the concept.