Remembrance Day invites us each year into a moment of quiet reflection. We think of those who have gone, of what they left behind — not only possessions or memories, but a way of having lived and of having loved. For many, it is a natural occasion to turn toward one's own life and ask: if something were to happen to me tomorrow, would my loved ones know what I want?
That question has nothing morbid about it. At its heart, it is an act of love.
Thinking Ahead Without Waiting
There is no ideal age to plan your wishes. Parents of young children, people going through a life transition, adults supporting their own aging parents — all may find themselves at a moment when this reflection arises quietly but insistently.
Acting early means giving your loved ones a clear framework at the very moment they will need it most. It means sparing them from having to make difficult decisions in an already painful context. Under Quebec law, certain documents allow a person to express their wishes in advance, to name the people they trust, and to protect what they have built. These documents cannot be drafted on one's own, and their legal validity depends on their form.
The Documents That Speak for You
The Will
A will makes it possible to state clearly to whom you wish to transfer your assets, in what proportions, and under what conditions. Without this document, it is the law that determines the distribution — and the result does not always reflect what the person would have wanted. The notarial will, in particular, offers a solidity and accessibility that considerably simplifies the process for heirs.
The Protection Mandate
Less well known than the will, the protection mandate is nonetheless equally important. It allows you to designate in advance one or more trusted persons to make decisions regarding your personal and financial affairs should you become incapacitated. This document protects not only the person concerned, but also those close to them, by avoiding lengthy and uncertain legal proceedings.
These two documents often form the foundation of thoughtful planning. Having them prepared with a notary ensures that they meet the requirements of Quebec law and that they will be valid and accessible when the time comes.
Naming the Right People
One of the most important decisions throughout this entire process is choosing whom you trust. Who will administer the estate? Who will make medical or financial decisions if you are no longer able to do so yourself? These choices deserve careful consideration, and they can evolve over time.
A notary helps clarify what these roles concretely involve, ensures that the people chosen are properly designated in the documents, and reduces the grey areas that could otherwise create tension among loved ones. It is not an easy conversation to start, but it is often the one that brings the greatest peace of mind once it has taken place.
Where to Begin?
Many people put off this process simply because they do not know where to start. The good news is that an initial consultation is often enough to bring clarity. The notary asks questions, listens to your situation, and helps identify your priorities. There is no need to have everything figured out beforehand — that is precisely the purpose of this meeting: to bring structure to the reflection.
In Laval and the surrounding area, many families go through this kind of process each year with the support of a notary. Most share the same feeling afterward: the relief of having finally brought order to something they knew was important, but kept putting off until tomorrow.
Consult Groupe Synergie Notaires
Founded in 2007 by Me Mirabela Petrulian, Groupe Synergie Notaires supports individuals and families in preparing their wishes, whether for a will, a protection mandate, or a broader reflection on estate planning.
If Remembrance Day moves you to think of those you love and what you wish to pass on to them, perhaps this is the right moment to begin that conversation. Me Petrulian and her team are available for an initial consultation, with no formality required.
Contact Groupe Synergie Notaires:
- By phone: (514) 399-1009
- By email: info@gsnotaires.com
- 67 boulevard Samson, Laval (Sainte-Dorothée), QC H7X 3E6
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have a lot of assets to make a will?
No — a will is useful regardless of the size of your estate, as its primary purpose is to express your wishes clearly and to designate trusted people to honour them. A consultation with a notary helps determine what is relevant based on your personal situation.
What is the difference between a will and a protection mandate?
A will applies upon death and specifies how you wish your assets to be transferred, whereas a protection mandate applies during your lifetime, should you become incapacitated and unable to make decisions. The two documents complement each other and can be prepared at the same time.
Can a will or protection mandate be changed after it has been signed?
Yes, these documents may be amended or revoked under Quebec law, as long as the person retains the capacity to do so. Me Petrulian will explain the applicable conditions during your consultation.
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. As every situation is unique, it is recommended that you consult a qualified professional to obtain advice tailored to your particular circumstances.
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. As each situation is unique, it is recommended that you consult a professional to obtain advice tailored to your particular situation.