A will is the only legal document that allows you to choose your heirs and the distribution of your property while you're still alive.
There are 3 types of wills:
- The authenticated will
- The handwritten will that is completely written by the hand of the testator, with or without witnesses
- The will in front of witnesses that can be handwritten or by any other type of writing, by pen or by electronic means but has to be made in the presence of 2 witnesses
Both the handwritten and the will in the presence of witnesses have to be verified by a court or by a notary. This verification procedure can be long and costly. Only the authenticated will comes into effect at the time of the death of the testator.
As it contains your last wishes, the will must be written in clear terms. The notary knows the importance of the choice of words and he will give himself or herself pleasure in guiding you during the elaboration of your will so that nothing will be forgotten.
In conclusion, unlike the other types of will, the original copy of the authenticated will is kept by the notary in a safe place and cannot be lost or destroyed.
The absence of a will can make your succession longer and more costly to resolve. So it is of your interest to make a will no matter what your legacy may contain.
Please contact us for a more detailed explanation....
E-MAIL: admin@mariage-quebec.net
PHONE: 514.278.8883
FAX: 514.279.3211
