Probate Court in Canada: What It Is and How It Affects Your Estate

What Is Probate Court in Canada?

If you’re managing a loved one’s estate or planning your own, you’ve likely heard of probate court. But what is probate court, exactly?

In simple terms, probate is the legal process, handled by your provincial court, that confirms a will is valid. This step gives the executor the legal authority to carry out the deceased’s final wishes.

It ensures everything is done by the book: debts are paid, assets are distributed fairly, and beneficiaries receive what they’re owed.

Probate rules differ by province. For example, Ontario requires a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee, while Quebec generally avoids probate for notarial wills.

Probate can sound complex, but understanding how it works can reduce stress during an already emotional time, and a good estate plan can make all the difference.

How the Probate Process Works

When Is Probate Required?

While probate isn’t always needed, it’s often required when:

• The deceased owned property or financial assets solely in their name
• There are no named beneficiaries on accounts like RRSPs or life insurance
• The will is unclear, contested, or missing, or there is no will
• Financial institutions request probate before releasing funds

Probate might not be required if most assets are jointly owned or have designated beneficiaries. If you're unsure, it can help to consult a legal expert or explore your provincial guidelines.

Key Steps in the Probate Process

Here’s what the probate process generally involves:

1. Locate the original will: The executor must find the original, signed will. If it’s missing, the process becomes much more complex
2. Apply for probate: This means filling out the necessary forms and submitting them to the appropriate provincial court. The exact documents vary, but usually include a death certificate, a copy of the will, an inventory of assets, and the probate application form
3. Pay probate fees: Fees vary by province, so it’s essential to check what fees apply depending on where you live
4. Receive the Certificate of Appointment: Once the court reviews and approves the application, it issues this certificate (or equivalent), formally granting the executor authority to act
5. Notify beneficiaries and institutions: Banks, government agencies, and beneficiaries must be notified that the executor is legally authorized to act
6. Gather and manage assets: The executor locates all the estate’s assets, like bank accounts, property, and personal belongings, and keeps them safe
7. Pay debts and taxes: The estate pays off any outstanding bills, taxes, and funeral costs before assets can be distributed
8. Distribute the estate: The remaining assets are distributed according to the will once debts are settled

Throughout this process, the executor must keep records, communicate with beneficiaries, and sometimes work with lawyers or accountants to make sure everything is done correctly.

The Role of the Executor

The executor plays a critical role in probate. They're responsible for following legal procedures, communicating with beneficiaries, and making sure the estate is settled fairly. This can be time-consuming and emotionally taxing.

Executors often manage everything from closing bank accounts and cancelling subscriptions to selling property and filing final tax returns. If there's a dispute among beneficiaries, they might also be pulled into legal proceedings.

Willful makes it easier by providing clear documentation and helping you name someone you trust in your will.

Common Documents Required for Probate

Each province has its own requirements, but these are the most commonly needed documents:

• Original signed will
• Death certificate
• Probate application form
• Affidavit of execution (if required. Not typically needed in Quebec.) 
• Statement of assets and liabilities
• Court filing fee or probate fee

Having these documents ready can streamline the process and reduce delays.

How Long Does Probate Take?

Probate timelines can range from a few weeks to over a year. Factors that cause delays include:

• Disputes over the will or family conflict
• Missing or incorrect documentation
• Court backlogs
• No clear executor, or cases where the named executor declines the role
• Complex or high-value estates that need professional appraisals

Probate can take as little as a few months in straightforward cases. It could take well over a year in more complicated ones, such as when the will is contested.

We cover timelines in our article on how long it takes to settle an estate.

What Happens If the Will Is Contested?

Contesting a will means someone believes it isn’t valid. This can happen if they think the deceased was pressured, mentally unfit, or if the will leaves out expected beneficiaries.

If a challenge is made, the estate can’t be distributed until the dispute is resolved. This may involve court hearings, legal fees, and long delays. The court may uphold the will, void it, or revert to a previous version.

A well-prepared estate plan, updated regularly, can help prevent disputes and make sure your wishes are respected.

Get started now

What to Expect Emotionally and Practically

Probate isn’t just paperwork, it can also be an emotional journey. Executors and loved ones often grieve while managing complex legal and financial tasks. This can make the probate process feel overwhelming.

Here are a few tips to navigate the process:

• Take it one step at a time
• Lean on professional support, including lawyers, accountants, or grief counsellors
• Keep communication open among family members
• Use tools like Willful to ensure your wishes are carried out

Even when you’re prepared, it’s okay to ask for help. Planning ahead is one of the best gifts you can give your loved ones.

What Does Probate Cost in Canada?

Probate fees are set by each province and are often based on the estate’s value. Here’s a quick look:

*Fees may change and can vary depending on the estate’s complexity. Confirm with your provincial court for the latest information.

Even a small percentage can add up, especially on larger estates. Knowing the potential costs ahead of time helps with planning.

Provincial Differences in Probate

While probate exists across Canada, the specifics vary:

• Ontario: Probate is common and involves a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee
• Quebec: Notarial wills usually avoid probate altogether, saving time and money
• Alberta: Uses flat-rate probate fees and has a relatively straightforward application process

Knowing the rules in your province helps you plan better. The Willful platform is built to reflect regional differences.

• Probate in Ontario
• Probate in Alberta
• Probate in Manitoba
• Probate in Saskatchewan
• Probate in Quebec
• Probate in Nova Scotia
• Probate in Newfoundland and Labrador
• Probate in New Brunswick
• Probate in British Columbia

How to Avoid or Simplify Probate

While you can’t always bypass probate, you can take steps to make the process smoother:

• Have joint ownership: Assets held jointly, like a home or bank account, pass directly to the survivor
• Name beneficiaries: RRSPs, TFSAs, and life insurance with named beneficiaries usually bypass probate
• Create a clear estate plan: A legally valid, up-to-date will makes probate easier. Willful can help you get started

Additionally, making your wishes known through clear documentation can reduce the chance of family disputes or confusion.

Learn more in our guide on how to avoid probate in Canada

Why Estate Planning Matters—Beyond Probate

Avoiding probate is just one benefit of estate planning. A good plan:

• Prevents confusion and family conflict
• Clarifies your final wishes
• Makes things easier for loved ones during a tough time
• Ensures your legacy is passed on the way you intend
• Helps your executor navigate the legal process more efficiently
• Potentially reduces legal costs and tax implications

Whether you've just welcomed your first child, bought your first home, or are downsizing, estate planning is for anyone who wants to ease the burden on loved ones and ensure their voice is heard when it matters most.

Willful’s online platform helps Canadians create a legal will in just 20 minutes. It’s simple, affordable, and legally valid. Get started now. 

FAQs

What is probate court in Canada?

Probate is the legal process, handled by your provincial court, that validates a will and authorizes an executor to settle the estate.

What are probate fees in Canada?

Fees vary by province and are usually tied to the estate's value. Some provinces charge a flat fee, others use a percentage.

Can you avoid probate entirely?

In some cases, yes. Joint ownership and naming beneficiaries on financial accounts can help your estate bypass probate.

Is probate public in Canada?

Yes, probate is a public process. Once a will is probated, it becomes part of the public record in most provinces.

What happens if someone dies without a will?

The estate goes through a process called intestacy. The court appoints someone to manage the estate, and assets are distributed based on provincial laws, not personal wishes.

What does an executor actually do?

An executor locates and secures assets, pays debts and taxes, and distributes the estate. They handle everything from paperwork to dealing with beneficiaries.

Start your estate plan with Willful now

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