A Will is a legally binding document to be used after an individual’s death that outlines final wishes and designates an executor who will see that the estate is settled accordingly.
While there is no requirement in Ontario to have a Will, it is highly recommended. A Will can assist your loved ones by not having them worry about various procedural issues related to someone passing away without a Will, which can create undesired results.
When a person dies with a Will, the estate is normally distributed according to the directions in.
If you die without a valid will you are considered to have died “intestate,” which means that the Ontario government through the Ontario Succession Law Reform Act, will distribute your estate (property, possessions, and other personal items). Your estate will not be distributed according to your wishes but according to the law.