What is an oral will, which is generally not allowed in most jurisdictions?

An oral will, also known as a nuncupative will, is a type of will that is declared verbally rather than being written down. This form of will is typically created in situations where the testator (the person making the will) is unable to make a written document, often due to impending death or to address urgent circumstances. Nuncupative wills are generally not allowed in most jurisdictions because they can be easily disputed due to issues surrounding proof of the testator’s intentions and the exact words used.

In many places, the law requires wills to be in writing and properly witnessed to reduce ambiguity and ensure clarity about the testator's wishes. The potential for misunderstandings and misrepresentation makes the nuncupative will a less reliable means of ensuring that a person's final wishes are honored.

The other options represent different types of wills: a testamentary will refers to a standard will created in writing; a living will is a legal document relating to healthcare and decision-making in case of incapacitation; and a holographic will is a handwritten will that is typically allowed in many jurisdictions if it meets specific rules. These types of wills are not characterized as oral declarations and are generally considered more secure in terms of legal enforcement.