Creating a will is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your loved ones and ensure your wishes are respected. Yet many people put it off—sometimes until it’s too late. At Beck, Robinson & Company, we’ve helped clients across British Columbia prepare legally sound, thoughtful wills that provide peace of mind for the future.
If you’ve never written a will or haven’t updated yours in years, this article will walk you through what you should include—and what could happen if you don’t have one at all.
What Is a Will?
A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes after death. It covers how your property should be distributed, who will care for your children, and who will carry out your instructions. In BC, a valid will must meet specific legal requirements, such as being written and properly witnessed.
Without a will, your estate is subject to provincial laws, which may not align with your personal intentions. That’s why it’s so important to have one in place—regardless of your age, income, or family situation.
What Should You Include in Your Will?
While every will is unique, here are the key elements you should consider:
1. Appointment of an Executor
This is the person you trust to manage your estate. They will handle tasks such as collecting assets, paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing property. Choose someone organized, reliable, and capable of making decisions during a difficult time.
2. Guardianship of Minor Children
If you have children under 19, you should name a guardian to care for them if something happens to both parents. This ensures your children are looked after by someone you trust.
3. Distribution of Assets
Specify who gets what—from major assets like real estate and investments to personal items with sentimental value. You can leave assets to individuals, charities, or organizations that matter to you.
4. Specific Gifts or Bequests
These are particular items or amounts of money you want to leave to certain people. For example, a piece of jewelry to a grandchild or a donation to a charity.
5. Residual Clause
This covers anything not specifically mentioned in the will. It’s a catch-all to ensure no part of your estate is left out or handled improperly.
6. Instructions for Funeral or Burial
While not legally binding, you can include preferences for your final arrangements. This can be helpful for your family during a stressful time.
What Happens If You Die Without a Will?
If you pass away without a will in BC, it’s known as dying “intestate.” In that case, your estate is distributed according to the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). Here’s what that might look like:
- Your spouse and children inherit in a set formula defined by law.
- If you have no spouse or children, your estate may go to parents, siblings, or more distant relatives.
- The court will appoint an administrator to manage your estate.
- There is no way to leave gifts to friends, charities, or causes that mattered to you.
This default process may work in some cases, but it removes your ability to make personal decisions. It can also lead to unintended disputes or delays that add stress for your loved ones.
Why You Should Review and Update Your Will
Your will should reflect your current circumstances. Major life changes—like marriage, divorce, having children, or acquiring property—should prompt a review. In BC, some events can even void a will if not properly addressed.
We recommend reviewing your will every few years or after any major life event. A small update now can save your family significant time, expense, and conflict down the road.
How We Help at Beck, Robinson & Company
We understand that talking about end-of-life planning can be uncomfortable. That’s why we approach wills and estate planning with care, clarity, and respect. Our lawyers take the time to understand your situation, walk you through your options, and ensure your will is legally valid and aligned with your goals.
Whether you need to draft your first will, update an existing one, or coordinate your estate plan with other documents like powers of attorney or representation agreements, we’re here to help.
Plan With Confidence—Protect What Matters
Having a legally sound will is one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones. It brings clarity, protects your legacy, and ensures your wishes are honoured.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your estate planning journey, contact Beck, Robinson & Company today. Our experienced team is here to guide you with professionalism, compassion, and trusted legal advice.