Wills statistics according to a BC Notaries’ Poll

Half of the adult population in British Columbia do not have a Will, according to a BC Notaries’ Poll. Only 51% of British Columbians have a current and legal Will, according to a province-wide poll conducted for The Society of Notaries Public of BC.

A telephone poll was conducted in November 2010 among 502 adults in BC. It found that 15% of people in the 18-to-34 age range, 49% between 35 and 54 and 80% of individuals 55+ have a Will in place. A properly executed Will creates certainty of your intentions for the distribution of assets and personal effects and the guardianship of minor children. It designates who is responsible for carrying out your wishes (an executor) and covers other vital details such as funeral arrangements.

Without a Will there is doubt, anxiety, stress, hurt feelings, and delays in administering the estate. There is even uncertainty about what the final funeral arrangements should be and who should pay for them. The kindest thing you can do for your loved ones is to leave your affairs in good order.

Creating a Will takes less time than most people think and can usually be completed in one or two short meetings. A good way to start the process is to identify a legal professional in your community—a BC Notary or a lawyer—someone you trust who can assist you in preparing a proper and legal Will.

The Society of Notaries Public of BC represents more than 320 highly trained Notary professionals. Most have locally owned and operated offices and they all provide personal assistance to clients around the province. Individuals, families, and businesses seek the services of BC Notaries for a wide range of non-contentious legal matters, including residential and commercial real estate transfers, mortgage refinancing, Wills, and advanced health care planning, powers of attorney, and other important documents.