A valid will must comply with numerous laws and regulations.
Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes and your loved ones are cared for. Our experienced estate planning lawyers help individuals and families across British Columbia draft clear, legally valid wills that reduce uncertainty, avoid disputes, and provide peace of mind.
Why do you need a Will?
A will is a legal document that outlines how your property, assets, and personal belongings should be handled after your death. In BC, if you die without a valid will (called dying intestate), your estate will be distributed according to the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA)—which may not reflect your actual intentions.
With a properly drafted will, you can:
- Appoint an executor to manage your estate
- Name guardians for minor children
- Distribute assets to family, friends, or charities
- Create trusts for children or dependents with disabilities
- Minimize family conflict and legal complications
What makes a Will valid in British Columbia?
To be considered legally valid in British Columbia, your will must meet certain legal requirements, including:
- You must be mentally capable and at least 16 years old
- The will must be in writing and signed in front of two witnesses
- The witnesses must also sign the will in your presence
Handwritten (holographic) wills and electronic wills may be accepted under specific circumstances, but errors or omissions can cause serious problems. Our lawyers ensure your will meets all legal standards and is tailored to your unique situation.
Our services include:
- Simple wills for individuals or couples
- Wills with trusts for children or dependents
- Mutual or mirror wills for spouses or partners
- Complex wills involving business interests (restricted wills) or blended families
- Updates or codicils to existing wills
By using in-depth interviews in person or on Zoom meetings and acquainting ourselves with your family relationships, businesses, real estate interests, investments and accounts, insurance coverage, beneficial interests, and other assets, we can help you prepare a will or wills that fit your unique circumstances. When necessary, we can work with your accountants and financial advisors to structure your will or wills as part of a comprehensive estate planning package, to minimize costs, avoid confusion, and transfer estate assets to beneficiaries with the least possible difficulties.
We also review existing wills and advise on whether updates are needed based on changes in your life or the law. A well-drafted will is a gift to the people you care about. It gives them clarity, direction, and protection when they need it most.
Contact us today to speak with a wills lawyer and take the first step toward securing your legacy.
