Estate law and estate settlement in Laval
With compassion and rigour, we guide you through estate settlement during the most difficult moments of your life.
What is an estate liquidator?
The person responsible for settling a deceased person's estate — identifying heirs, drawing up an inventory of assets and debts, paying creditors, and distributing what remains to beneficiaries. In Québec law, the person responsible for liquidating an estate is called the liquidator. In some wills, particularly older ones, the expression “executor” (“exécuteur testamentaire”) may also be found.
Is a search for a will actually mandatory?
After death, testamentary searches must be carried out with the Chambre des notaires du Québec and the Barreau du Québec to verify whether a will exists and to identify the most recent one registered in their respective registers.
Does a common-law partner automatically inherit if there's no will?
The consequences of a death are not the same depending on whether or not the partners are in a parental union. If the common-law partners are not in a parental union, the surviving partner is not a legal heir. If the partners are in a parental union, the surviving partner may be called to the estate under the rules of legal devolution, even in the absence of a will.
Why does the inventory of assets and debts matter?
It lets heirs decide, with full knowledge, whether to accept or renounce the estate — particularly if debts exceed assets. Once the inventory is complete, the liquidator must register a notice of closure of the inventory in the Register of Personal and Movable Real Rights (RDPRM). This notice must also be published in a newspaper distributed in the locality of the deceased’s last known address and state where the inventory may be consulted by interested persons.
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.
Recent guides on this topic
Renouncing an Estate: When and How
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Transferring a Property to Heirs: The Steps
Discover the concrete steps involved in transferring a property in Québec after a death, and the notary's role at each key stage.
Estates and Debts: Who Is Responsible?
Estate debts in Québec: who is truly responsible? Learn your options before accepting or renouncing an inheritance.
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