Probate in Ontario refers to the court process of validating a deceased person’s will and confirming the appointment of the executor named in the will. This process ensures that the will is legally valid and gives the executor the authority to administer the estate according to the deceased’s wishes. In Ontario, the probate process is governed by the rules outlined in the Estates Administration Act. Executors typically initiate probate by submitting the will, along with other required documents, to the Ontario Superior Court of Justice.
Key Steps in the Probate Process
The probate process involves several key steps. First, the court examines the will to ensure it meets all legal requirements, such as being properly signed and witnessed. Next, the court issues a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee with a Will, commonly known as probate. This document grants the executor the legal authority to manage and distribute the deceased’s estate. Executors must then inventory assets, settle debts, file taxes, and distribute assets as per the will’s instructions. Throughout this process, executors must adhere to strict timelines and legal requirements to avoid delays or complications. probate ontario