Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Burlington

About Will & Testament Law in Burlington, Canada:

Will & Testament, also known as estate planning, refers to the legal process of creating a document that outlines how your assets and property will be distributed after your death. In Burlington, Canada, Will & Testament laws are governed by provincial legislation, specifically the Succession Law Reform Act.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

While it is possible to create a simple Will without legal assistance, there are several situations where consulting a lawyer specializing in Will & Testament can be beneficial:

• If you have a large estate or complex financial situation
• If you want to ensure your Will is legally valid and enforceable
• If you anticipate family disputes or challenges to your Will
• If you want to minimize taxes and maximize the distribution of assets
• If you want to include specific provisions or conditions in your Will

Local Laws Overview:

In Burlington, Canada, the following key aspects of local laws are particularly relevant to Will & Testament:

• Legal Age: The legal age to create a Will in Burlington is 18 years.
• Witness Requirements: A Will in Burlington must be witnessed by two individuals who are not beneficiaries or married to beneficiaries named in the Will.
• Revocation of Previous Wills: Creating a new Will automatically revokes any previous Wills you may have made, unless expressly stated otherwise.
• Executor Responsibilities: The executor named in your Will is responsible for managing the distribution of your assets and carrying out your wishes.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make changes to my Will after it's been created?

Yes, you can make changes or update your Will at any time. This can be done through a codicil, which is a document that amends specific provisions of your existing Will, or by creating an entirely new Will.

2. What happens if I die without a Will in Burlington?

If you die without a Will in Burlington, your assets will be distributed according to the rules of intestacy. This means the court will determine how your property is divided amongst your surviving relatives, following a predefined hierarchy.

3. Is it necessary to involve a lawyer in the probate process?

While it is not mandatory to involve a lawyer in the probate process, it can be highly beneficial, especially if there are complex issues or if you need guidance on fulfilling your duties as an executor.

4. Can I disinherit someone in my Will?

Under Burlington law, you have the right to disinherit someone. However, it is important to consult with a lawyer to ensure that your intentions are clearly stated in your Will to minimize the possibility of legal challenges.

5. How can I store my Will safely in Burlington?

It is recommended to keep your Will in a safe and accessible place. You can consider options such as storing it in a safety deposit box, with your lawyer, or with the Office of the Registrar of Wills for a nominal fee.

Additional Resources:

• Ontario Ministry of the Attorney General - Estate Planning: https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/estates/estate_planning.php
• Law Society of Ontario - Finding a Lawyer: https://lso.ca/public-resources/finding-a-lawyer-or-paralegal

Next Steps:

If you require legal assistance in Will & Testament matters in Burlington, Canada, consider taking the following steps:

• Identify your specific needs and goals related to your Will & Testament.
• Research and contact reputable lawyers specializing in estate planning in Burlington.
• Consult with the selected lawyer to discuss your situation and receive professional advice.
• Provide the necessary information and documents to your lawyer for them to assist you effectively.
• Review and finalize your Will with your lawyer, ensuring it reflects your wishes and complies with local laws.