Best Will & Testament Lawyers in Unity

About Will & Testament Law in Unity, Canada

In Unity, Canada, Will & Testament law governs how a person's assets, property, and guardianship wishes are carried out after they pass away. Creating a legal will ensures your estate is distributed according to your intentions, provides peace of mind for your loved ones, and can help avoid disputes. Unity, a community in Saskatchewan, follows provincial laws that set out how wills should be prepared, executed, and administered.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While it is legally possible to write your own will, there are common situations where seeking the help of a lawyer experienced in Will & Testament law is highly recommended:

• Your estate is complex or includes property in different provinces or countries.
• You wish to provide for dependents with special needs or vulnerable family members.
• You want to set up trusts or make specific arrangements for minors.
• Family dynamics are complicated (e.g., blended families, estranged relatives).
• You are concerned about potential challenges to your will or estate.
• You have substantial assets or tax planning is important to you.
• You want to ensure your will is legally valid and clear, avoiding costly mistakes or misunderstandings.

A lawyer can provide guidance tailored to your unique needs and help you feel confident that your wishes will be fulfilled.

Local Laws Overview

Will & Testament matters in Unity fall under Saskatchewan’s Wills Act, 1996. Here are some key points relevant to residents:

• Minimum Age: A person must generally be at least 18 years old to make a will.
• In Writing: Wills must be written. Typed and handwritten (holograph) wills are recognized, but there are specific requirements for each.
• Witnesses: Formal wills require two witnesses (not beneficiaries). Holograph wills do not require witnesses but must be entirely in the testator’s handwriting.
• Executor: The will should name an executor, who is responsible for carrying out the will’s instructions.
• Revocation: A will can be revoked or changed any time before death, typically by writing a new will or a codicil.
• Intestate Estates: If there is no valid will, provincial intestacy laws determine how assets are distributed, which may not reflect your preferences.
• Probate: Most wills must go through probate, a court process that confirms the executor’s authority and validates the will. Simpler estates may qualify for streamlined procedures.
• Marriage and Divorce: Marriage or divorce can affect the validity of your will, in some cases revoking it in whole or part.

Understanding these local standards is crucial to ensure your will is both valid and effective.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a will?

A will is a legal document that specifies how you want your assets distributed and who will care for minor children after your death.

Can I write my own will in Unity, Canada?

Yes, you can, but your will must comply with provincial standards to be valid. Holograph wills (all in your own handwriting) are legal in Saskatchewan, but errors can cause complications.

Do I need witnesses for my will to be valid?

Typed wills require two witnesses who are not beneficiaries. If it is entirely handwritten (holograph), witnesses are not needed.

What happens if I die without a will?

Your estate will be distributed according to Saskatchewan’s intestacy laws, which may result in distributions different from your wishes.

Can I change my will after it’s made?

Yes, you can revise your will any time while you have mental capacity, either by making a new will or adding a codicil.

Does my will cover all my assets?

Some assets, such as jointly owned property, insurance policies, or RRSPs with named beneficiaries, may pass outside your will.

How do I appoint a guardian for my children?

You can name a guardian in your will, but a court will confirm the appointment upon your death, always considering the best interests of the child.

Do I need a lawyer to probate a will?

Executors sometimes handle simple probate themselves, but complex estates, disputes, or unusual provisions may require a lawyer’s help.

Does marriage or divorce affect my will?

Marriage can void an existing will unless it was made in contemplation of marriage. Divorce may revoke certain provisions. Review your will after these life changes.

How often should I update my will?

You should review your will after major life events (marriage, divorce, birth of a child, move to a new province, significant asset changes) or at least every few years.

Additional Resources

For more guidance on Will & Testament matters in Unity, Canada, consider these resources:

• Public Legal Education Association of Saskatchewan (PLEA): Offers plain-language resources and booklets on wills and estates.
• Law Society of Saskatchewan: Provides information on finding a qualified local wills and estates lawyer.
• Government of Saskatchewan – Supervising Estates: Offers information on the probate process and forms for executors.
• Unity Town Office: Can direct you to notary publics, local legal clinics, and other municipal supports.
• Community Legal Assistance Services for Saskatoon Inner City (CLASSIC): May provide low-cost legal advice for eligible individuals.

Next Steps

If you need further assistance regarding your Will & Testament in Unity, Canada, consider the following steps:

1. List your assets and think about your wishes for property distribution and guardianship.
2. Consult with a qualified wills and estates lawyer in Unity or nearby communities. Many offer a free initial consultation.
3. Gather relevant documents (previous wills, identification, property deeds, insurance policies) for your lawyer.
4. Review local legal resource centres or public information guides if you are not ready to see a lawyer.
5. After finalizing your will, store it securely, inform your executor, and review it regularly for needed updates.

Taking proactive steps today helps ensure your wishes are respected and makes matters easier for your loved ones in the future.