Notarial will in Laval
A will organizes the transfer of your property after your death. Made before a notary, it is received in the form required by law, kept safe and registered, so that your wishes can be found and carried out. We help you draft it with care, in Laval.
Notarial will and holograph will
A notarial will is received by a notary in the presence of a witness, in accordance with the Notaries Act. The notary makes sure it faithfully reflects your wishes and meets the legal requirements, and it is then registered with the Register of Testamentary Dispositions and Mandates of the Chambre des notaires du Québec.
A holograph will is written entirely by hand, dated and signed by you, with no witness or professional. It costs nothing to write, but its formal requirements are strict, and it must be verified, before a notary or the court, before it can be carried out. A notarial will does not need to be verified: it is enforceable upon death.
When to contact us
- You are in a blended family: legal clarity is essential to avoid conflict.
- You have minor children: precise drafting is important.
- You own real property: a notarial will avoids delays when title is transferred.
- You have a business or complex assets: continuity should not depend on a document that is easy to challenge.
- You already have a holograph will: a review with a notary lets you assess its risks and, if needed, replace it.
The main steps
Meeting
We take the time to understand your family and financial situation and your wishes.
Drafting
The notary drafts a tailored will that meets the legal requirements.
Signing
The will is read with you, then signed before the notary and a witness.
Safekeeping and registration
The notary keeps the original and the will is registered, so it can be found after your death.
The exact sequence may vary depending on your file.
What to prepare
- Valid identification, such as a passport or a driver’s licence.
- An overview of your property (real estate, accounts, investments, business) and of the people you wish to leave it to.
- The person you would like to name as liquidator of your estate.
- Your current will, if you have one.
- The complete list of documents to provide is sent to you when your appointment is confirmed.
What is the difference between a notarial will and a holograph will?
A notarial will is received by a notary in the presence of a witness, kept safe and registered, and does not need to be verified after death. A holograph will is handwritten without a professional and must be verified, before a notary or the court, before it can be carried out.
Is my holograph will valid?
Its formal requirements are strict: a typed section, an incomplete date or an ambiguous signature can compromise it. A notary can review it with you and, if needed, replace it.
Where is my will kept?
The notary keeps the original deed, and a notarial will is registered with the Register of Testamentary Dispositions and Mandates of the Chambre des notaires du Québec, so it can be found after death.
Why can a notarial will speed up the settlement of an estate?
Because it does not need to be verified, it is enforceable upon death. A holograph will must be verified first, which adds steps and delays.
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.
Related services
Your notary in Laval
Groupe Synergie Notaires is located at 67 boulevard Samson, in Laval (Sainte-Dorothée). The firm is led by Me Mirabela Petrulian, notary.
About Me Petrulian →Directions and opening hours →Guides to learn more
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