Writing a last Will can be complex, especially when you own diverse assets. Thankfully, a Wills and Estates lawyer, like those at GS Brar Law, can provide seamless guidance and help you set your affairs in order. The team of Will and Estate lawyers at GS Brar Law can equip you with everything you need to know about legal Wills.
What Is a Will?
A Will is a legal document that determines how your estate should be administered in the event of your death. Depending on your situation and wishes, the document can include directives on estate beneficiaries, asset allocation, funeral arrangements and guardianship for any children.
A Will can be seen as a gift to your family during a time of grief. That’s why it is crucial to seek the expertise of a reputable Wills and Estates lawyer to help with the legalities of estate planning and ensure that your loved ones are taken care of according to your wishes.
What Makes a Will Legal in Ontario?
Creating a legal Will is an essential step in ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your passing. A legal Will in Ontario should meet the following requirements:
· Intentionality: The Will must be created voluntarily by you, the testator. It should not be written based on the opinions or coercion of others.
· Testamentary Capacity: The testator must be of sound mind, able to think rationally, make sound decisions and understand the legal effect of administering their estate.
· Age: The testator must be over the age of majority – 18 years old.
· Beneficiaries: The testator must clearly outline the names of individuals or organizations receiving specific assets or monies.
· Executor: The Will should identify an executor to manage and conduct the testator’s wishes. The executor has a fiduciary duty to act in a beneficiary’s best interests and follow the instructions outlined in the Will.
· Revocability: The testator has a right to amend or annul their Will at any time.
How Can an Estate Administration Lawyer Help with Wills?
An invalid or nonexistent Will can be detrimental to your family’s future. In Ontario, the absence of a legally binding Will can cause long delays in winding up your estate and increased costs. Therefore, seeking the expert advice of a Wills and Estates lawyer is paramount. They can provide legal expertise, help you avoid common mistakes when writing your Will, support your loved ones and ensure your wishes are executed accurately.
Wills and Estates Lawyer in Brampton
Death is a certainty that we all must face. So, whether you’re writing a Will for the first time or updating an existing one, consulting with a legal professional can help safeguard your legacy and protect your loved ones.
The outstanding team of lawyers at GS Brar Law can review your Will and estate documents and help you prepare. We are innovative, bold, approachable and charitable within our communities. We would be happy to serve you and all your estate administration needs.
