Making a Will in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

St. John's, about 111,000 residents, is the capital and largest city of Newfoundland and Labrador and one of North America's oldest cities. A key warning for its many common-law couples: provincial intestacy rules don't recognize them.

What a valid will requires in St. John's

Under the province's Wills Act, a will must be in writing, signed at the end, and witnessed by two non-beneficiary adults present together. You must meet the minimum age (confirm the current threshold) and be capable. The province accepts a fully handwritten holograph will (no witnesses). Fully electronic wills aren't valid — sign on paper.

Probate and cost in St. John's

St. John's estates are probated through the Supreme Court of Newfoundland and Labrador. The probate fee is roughly $6 per $1,000 (about 0.6%) above a small threshold — about $6,050 on a $1,000,000 estate. Named beneficiaries and joint tenancy (with care) reduce the probated estate.

If you die without a will in St. John's

A spouse takes one-half (with one child) or one-third (with more), and the children take the rest. A common-law partner inherits nothing on intestacy — only a will (or marriage) provides for an unmarried partner.

Getting started

Common-law couples and blended families should especially make a will; simpler married estates can use a reputable provincial online will signed with two witnesses. Add an Enduring Power of Attorney and an Advance Health Care Directive.

Frequently asked questions

How much is probate in St. John's? Roughly 0.6% — about $6,050 on a $1M estate. Do common-law partners inherit in St. John's? No — only a will provides for a common-law partner here. Is a handwritten will legal in St. John's? Yes — a fully handwritten, signed holograph will is valid.

Not legal advice. General information about Newfoundland and Labrador law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with a St. John's estate lawyer.