How Should I Write My Will in Ontario?

Many people ask, “How should I write my will?” In Ontario, the most reliable way
to ensure your will is legally valid and reflects your wishes is to work with a
wills or estates lawyer. A lawyer can help ensure your will is properly drafted,
clear, and compliant with Ontario law.

A well-written will reduces the risk of disputes, delays, or complications during probate and
helps ensure your estate is distributed according to your intentions.

Why Professional Drafting Matters

While there are templates and online tools available, wills are highly personal legal documents.
Errors or unclear wording can create problems later, especially when the estate must go through
probate.

A lawyer can help you:

  • Clearly identify beneficiaries and gifts
  • Appoint executors and alternate executors
  • Address guardianship for minor children, if applicable
  • Reduce the risk of legal challenges or misinterpretation

Once Your Will Is Written

After your will has been properly drafted, it must be signed and witnessed correctly
to be legally valid. In Ontario, most wills require two eligible witnesses to be present at the time
of signing.

This is where NotarySpace can assist.

Remote Witnessing of Wills

If you are unable to attend an in-person signing, NotarySpace may assist with remote
witnessing of your will, where permitted. Remote witnessing allows eligible witnesses to
observe the signing using secure technology, helping you complete the process conveniently and
safely.

Learn more about this option by visiting our online notary services page.

Why Proper Witnessing Is Important

Even a professionally drafted will can face problems if it is not signed correctly. Improper
execution may cause delays during probate or require additional court documents, such as affidavits
of execution.

Using professional witnessing services helps ensure:

  • Your will is signed in compliance with Ontario requirements
  • The execution process is properly documented
  • Future probate delays are minimized

What NotarySpace Can and Cannot Do

NotarySpace does not draft wills or provide legal advice unless the service is
offered by a licensed legal professional. However, NotarySpace can assist with:

  • Remote or in-person witnessing of a prepared will
  • Notarizing probate-related documents
  • Commissioning affidavits of execution

For more information about our services, visit ouronline notary services page.

Key Takeaway

  • Wills are best drafted by a wills or estates lawyer
  • Once written, the will must be properly signed and witnessed
  • Remote witnessing may be available in certain situations
  • NotarySpace supports execution and probate-related steps

If your will is already drafted and you need help with witnessing or execution,
NotarySpace is here to help.

NotarySpace
6700 Century Ave, 3rd Floor, Suite 318
Mississauga, ON L5N 6A4