Prepare for the people and decisions that matter.

What does a will do?

A will records how you want your estate dealt with after your death and who should administer it. It may include gifts, arrangements for the remainder of your estate, and wishes concerning children. A will and a power of attorney serve different purposes: a power of attorney concerns decisions during your lifetime.

Does a will need to be notarized?

Do not assume that adding a notary’s stamp makes a will valid. The execution requirements depend on the jurisdiction and type of will. For an ordinary Ontario will, the usual process involves signing or acknowledging the signature before two witnesses present at the same time, who also sign. Witness selection matters, particularly if a witness or their spouse benefits under the will.

A witness may also complete an affidavit of execution. That is a separate document recording the signing; it does not replace the will’s execution requirements. Ask before booking a remote appointment, because remote will witnessing has additional conditions.

Reference: Ontario Succession Law Reform Act. Requirements outside Ontario must be checked for the relevant province or territory.

Preparation and appointment fees

Will preparation is a paid service, with scope and price confirmed before payment. Signing, supplied witnesses and commissioning of affidavits may carry separate fees. Request a quote that explains what is included before proceeding.

For decisions during your lifetime, read our power of attorney guide.