Wills and Register of Wills in Sarnia, Ontario

Wills and Estates - George, Murray, Shipley, Bell, LLP

The need to drawing up a last Will or the process of registering a Will rarely seems like an imminent duty. But the fact remains that regardless of how old or young you may be, securing a legally binding will remains a critical necessity.

Wills are not merely documents that outline how your assets will be divided after you pass. They are an inherent act of kindness that expresses and delivers your wishes to family, friend, and loved ones. By not having a Will in place, you force the government and decide for you.

That’s why it’s imperative to already have a legally sound will in place. At the law firm of George Murray Shipley Bell, LLP, our experienced Sarnia lawyers provide the vital legal services you require to craft and register a legally-sound Will. From the registration of legal Wills and trusts and legal Wills and probate, George, Murray, Shipley, Bell, LLP can provide the insights into developing a Will that represents your very wishes.

Benefits of Creating and Registering A Will

The primary advantage of working with one of our Sarnia lawyers is that a legally binding Will directs your wishes. As noted in your Will, a person of your choosing Will be designated to carry out the distribution of wealth and detailed personal items. Debts will be repaid, funeral expenses covered and the remaining wealth and personal belonging appropriately distributed.

Another critical component of a legally-sound Will involves designating guardianship in the event you leave behind a minor or dependent child. The Will allows you to select a person with similar values who would raise your child in a desirable environment. It also lets you pick someone you trust.

What Happens Without A Will In Place?

When a person fails to craft a Will, their wealth and personal property are distributed by the rules under the Succession Law Reform Act. Often called “intestate,” the government has a hard set of regulations it follows. These include the following.

  • The first $200,000 goes to the spouse unless a financially dependent heir makes a claim.
  • After $200,000, the remainder is divided between the surviving spouse and direct heirs.
  • If unmarried, the children or grandchildren may inherit the estate.

In the absence of a spouse, children or grandchildren, the court will reach out to extended family members such as siblings, cousin, and others. Although this seems like a logical method, it likely differs from the subtle differences you might make. For instance, items such as family heirlooms and things that hold great personal value would merely be assigned a monetary value.

Register You Will with Sarnia’s Leading Legal Team

Working with an experienced attorney to craft a Will amounts to more than just tidying up your affairs. It’s an act of kindness that demonstrates how deeply you care about the loved ones we will all leave behind some day. If you do not have a Will or need to update an existing one, contact Sarnia’s leading legal team at George Murray Shipley Bell, LLP, and schedule a consultation today.

Our Wills and Register of Wills in Sarnia, Ontario Lawyers :