Do You Need a Lawyer to Make a Will in Newfoundland and Labrador?
Last updated 2026-06 · Newfoundland and Labrador
No — Newfoundland and Labrador doesn't require a lawyer to make a valid will. What it requires is compliance with the Wills Act: a will signed by the testator (or a holograph will in your own handwriting) and, for a typed will, signed in front of two witnesses who aren't beneficiaries.
What you legally need
- You must be at least the age of majority and of sound mind.
- A typed will must be signed by you at the end, in the presence of two witnesses who also sign in your presence. Neither witness — nor their spouse — should be a beneficiary, or the gift to them is generally void.
- A holograph will entirely in your own handwriting and signed is valid in Newfoundland and Labrador with no witnesses.
When DIY (or an online service) is reasonable
- Simple estate: a home, a few accounts, registered plans with named beneficiaries.
- Straightforward family: one spouse, adult children, no blended-family complexity.
- No business, no out-of-province real estate, no disabled beneficiary, no trust needs.
A reputable online will service that produces a Newfoundland and Labrador-specific document — printed and witnessed — is usually fine here.
When you should hire a lawyer
- Blended families, second marriages, or estranged children.
- A business, farm, or rental properties.
- A disabled beneficiary who relies on income-tested benefits (a Henson trust may be needed).
- Assets outside Newfoundland and Labrador — especially U.S. real estate.
- High estate value where Newfoundland and Labrador's about 0.6% probate cost matters.
- Anticipated disputes — estranged spouse, capacity questions, second family.
What a Newfoundland and Labrador lawyer adds
Beyond drafting, a lawyer integrates your will with your Power of Attorney and Personal Directive / Health Care Directive, ensures execution formalities are met, and stores the original safely.
Frequently asked questions
Is a lawyer required to make a will in Newfoundland and Labrador? No — self-drafted and online wills are valid if properly signed and witnessed. Can I write my own will in Newfoundland and Labrador? Yes — fully handwritten and signed is a valid holograph will. How much does a will cost in Newfoundland and Labrador? A simple lawyer-drafted will is typically $400–$800; online services are usually under $200. Are online wills legal in Newfoundland and Labrador? Yes, once printed and signed before two witnesses.
Not legal advice. General information about Newfoundland and Labrador law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with a Newfoundland and Labrador estate lawyer.
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