If you were to die suddenly, what would happen to your kids" This is a scenario no parent wants to think about, but preparing for it could spare your family a great deal of delay, expense and even conflict as they navigate their new reality without you. Preparing a will ensures that your wishes?both for your children and your estate?will be known and, assuming you have fulfilled your legal obligations, followed.
We talked to Eleanor Carlson, a lawyer at Carbert Waite LLP in Calgary, and Dorisa Nachla, a barrister and solicitor and founder of Nachla Law Office in Oakville, Ontario, to learn more about wills?and what happens if you die without a will. Note: The information provided applies only to people living in Canada and may vary from province to province. This article does not constitute legal advice?you should always consult a lawyer where you live to seek out advice that’s right for you. What is a will"
A will is a legal document that explains how you want your estate to be divided when you die. If you include a guardianship clause, you can also appoint a guardian for your underage children. You can also specify your preferences for your funeral arrangements.
If I die without a will, what happens"
If you die without a will, your estate will be divided and distributed according to the laws of your province or territory.
For example, in Ontario, anything you own jointly with someone (such as your family home) automatically goes to the co-owner (usual...