Ensure Your Will Is Properly Drafted

It’s never too early to think about drafting your will. Though writing a will can seem like a heavy topic, it’s often better to consider your options ahead of time.

Having a properly drafted will by a legal professional will help to ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes. This is especially important if you are married, have children, own property, or have other investments. Don’t leave it up to the courts to decide what to do with your belongings should the unfortunate happen!

Wills are an area where professional advice is well worth the cost. At Vancouver Downtown Notary we can draft a legal will clearly outlining the distribution of your assets with no chance of misinterpretation.

Can I Draft A Will Myself?

In British Columbia, you do not need a lawyer or notary to draft a will. However, if your will is not legally drafted, it can create many issues for your heirs and the distribution of your assets. Why take that chance? Having your will drafted by our lawyers and notaries public ensures that it is legal.

What Happens If I Don’t Have A Will?

If you die without a will, your property will be divided according to BC law instead of your desired intentions. This also means increased costs to administer your estate. Without naming an executor, eligible individuals can apply for a grant of administration to handle your estate, who may not have your best intentions in mind.

More importantly, if you have children, you give up the right to appoint a legal guardian. The children may even be put in foster care while the courts decide on a course of action.

With a well-drafted legal will, you will have full control over your assets, executor, and dependents.

What Should I Think About Before Drafting A Will?

When it comes to drafting your will, it’s important to keep in mind the essential elements before delving too deep into specifics. Start by asking yourself these questions:

• Who will be my executor?

Your executor is a person (or several people) responsible for carrying out the instructions in your will. They oversee who gets what, and makes sure debts are paid. Think about someone you trust. It can be a spouse, adult child, or a trusted friend. You can also choose a lawyer or trust group. Just be sure that whomever you choose is up to the responsibilities of being an executor.

• How would I like my assets and property distributed?

Don’t leave this up to chance. Take full control over the distribution of your belongings after you are gone.

• Who should take care of my dependents?

Dependents include not only children but also pets. This is especially important if there is no surviving parent with custody of the children. Make sure your potential guardian is up to taking on this important responsibility.

• Are there any special circumstances I need to address?

Do you own a business or shares in a private corporation? Wills can be as simple or complex as the individual making them.

Do you have any questions about writing a will? Contact Vancouver Downtown Notary today and we will be happy to guide you through the process. We also offer mobile notary public services to help you make this process easier – call us at 778.819.8553 to arrange a meeting.