One of the most common documents we assist clients with is the preparation, drafting, and signing of their Will. While making a Will is a relatively simple process, some people find it stressful, and we get plenty of questions. Brosgall Legal | Notary Services is here to put you at ease, answer your questions, and help you get the job done.
Creating a Will is an integral part of an effective estate plan. An estate plan is about making the proper legal arrangements should you need help taking care of yourself or your affairs if you get sick, injured or disabled, and finally, in the event of your death. This article will explain how Brosgall Legal can assist you make a Will that is valid in BC. If you have any questions, or want to book an appointment, please send us an email or call us at 604-685-ADAM [2326]. You may also visit our VancouverNotary.biz home page for further information.
What is a Will?
A Will is a legally enforceable document that permits you to leave instructions about what you want done with your property and money after you die. Dying without a Will (intestate) results in a great degree of uncertainty and trouble for the loved ones you leave behind. On the other hand, a properly drafted and signed (executed) Will lets everyone know exactly what you want in regards to the distribution of your assets, personal items, and the guardianship of minor children. In addition, your Will appoints an executor to be responsible for carrying out all your final wishes.
Most of our clients only need a simple Will. They are fairly inexpensive, and easily completed. Despite this, a recent survey found that only 51% of adults in BC actually have a Will. This is a risky strategy, becasue without a Will, a deceased person is considered 'intestate', and the Court determines who the executor will be, and the law decides who is entitled to the estate.
How is a Will Prepared?
Once you call our office, we will ask you some questions. Typically, you will need to deterimine who you want to be your executor, beneficiaries, and guardian - if you have minor children. We also have a questionaire that we offer to get you thinking about these things. This can mostly be completed via email and telephone. Once you are ready, we use the information you give us, and prepare your Will so that it is ready to be signed. We review it with you to explain the clauses, and answer any questions you may have. To make it a valid Will, two witnesses are required. Some people execute their Will at our office, and other clients prefer to use their own witnesses. We also recommend that you file a Wills Notice in Victoria.
Who Should Have a Will?
Adults in B.C. who:
- Own property, including real estate, vehicles or other assets;
- Have a dependent spouse or children; and
- Wish to have someone they know and trust take care of their estate after death.
Mobile Notary Will Service
Perhaps you have health and mobility issues, or special needs that make it difficult or impossible to visit our notary office. Brosgall Legal offers mobile notary services in and around Vancouver, BC, and we would be pleased to assist in the preparation and execution of your Will. With this service, we come to you. We pre-prepare your Will, and it is executed at your location. Everything is very trouble-free and efficient. If you can't get to our office, you pick the time and place... meetings can take place at your home, nursing home, or hospital (St. Paul's or VGH). We'll visit your location fully prepared, and equipped with our notarial seal and all required stamps. With Brosgall Legal's mobile notary service, everything is done at your location, and at your convenience.
Vancouver Notary Public, Commissioner of Oaths, and Lawyer
Brosgall Legal's owner and principal, Adam Brosgall, is an experienced Vancouver Notary Public, Commissioner of Oaths, and Lawyer. He is fully qualified, licenced, and insured to prepare and draft Wills, as well as other forms of personal and estate planning documentation. If you have any questions, please feel free to send us an email, or call 604-685-ADAM [2326] to book an appointment. Same day service and walk-ins are welcome. Please see our Vancouver Notary home page for our other services, and we look forward to seeing you.