What Happens If There Is No Will?
When a person passes away without a dated, signed, and properly witnessed will, they are said to have died “intestate.” In this situation, the court takes charge of deciding how the deceased’s assets should be distributed.
This process disregards personal relationships or preferences and strictly follows provincial laws, which allocate assets based on the legal relationship to the deceased.
How Intestate Succession Works
Under intestate succession laws, only spouses, common-law partners, and blood relatives are eligible to inherit. The distribution typically follows a hierarchy, prioritizing immediate family members and moving outward to more distant relatives if no direct heirs are available.
This means that property and funds may go to individuals based solely on legal family status, potentially bypassing close friends or chosen family members.
Why Having a Will Matters
Dying without a will can create challenges for surviving family members and may lead to unwanted outcomes. By creating a will that specifies how your property and assets should be distributed, you gain control over these important decisions and reduce potential confusion or conflict among loved ones.
Planning ahead and leaving a clear, legally recognized will provides peace of mind and minimizes the administrative and emotional burdens on those left behind.
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Common Questions We Receive
We look to answer some commonly asked questions to help make understanding funerals easier for you.
Next Steps After
The Funeral Service
After the funeral service, you will need to handle important tasks, such as notifying financial institutions, settling the estate, and closing accounts. It’s also helpful to review any eligible benefits, such as survivor pensions or insurance claims, and consider seeking grief support if needed.