Wills in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia essentials

• What Makes a Will Legally Valid in Nova Scotia?

  A valid Nova Scotia will must be signed at the end and witnessed by two non-beneficiaries — or be a fully handwritten holograph will. Age 19, plus mistakes to avoid.

• Do You Need a Lawyer to Make a Will in Nova Scotia?

  You don't need a lawyer to make a valid will in Nova Scotia, but you do need to follow the Wills Act. Here's when DIY works and when to hire a pro.

• Are Handwritten (Holograph) Wills Valid in Nova Scotia?

  Yes — a fully handwritten and signed will is a valid holograph will in Nova Scotia, with no witnesses required. Here's how to do it right and why it's risky.

• Are Online & Electronic Wills Legal in Nova Scotia?

  Online wills are legal in Nova Scotia once printed and witnessed. Fully electronic (e-signed) wills are not. Here's the difference and how to comply.

• What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Nova Scotia?

  If you die without a will in Nova Scotia, the Intestate Succession Act decides who inherits — not you. Here's how the shares work and what it means for common-law partners.

• Does Your Spouse Inherit Everything If You Die Without a Will in Nova Scotia?

  Not always. In Nova Scotia, a spouse inherits everything only if there are no descendants. Otherwise the estate is shared with the children.

• How Much Does Probate Cost in Nova Scotia?

  Probate fees in Nova Scotia are tiered, roughly 1.7% on amounts over $100,000 of estate value, paid to the Probate Court. Here's how it's calculated and what's exempt.

• What Assets Skip Probate in Nova Scotia?

  In Nova Scotia, registered plans, life insurance, and joint property with survivorship skip probate. Here's how each works — and the traps to avoid.

• Does a Will Cover Medical Decisions in Nova Scotia?

  No — a will only takes effect at death. In Nova Scotia you also need Enduring Power of Attorney and a Personal Directive for incapacity.

• How Often Should You Update Your Will in Nova Scotia?

  Nova Scotia wills don't expire, but they go stale. Review every 3–5 years and after marriage, separation, kids, or major asset changes.

Cities in Nova Scotia

Halifax, Nova Scotia

Making a Will in Halifax, Nova Scotia

How to make a valid will in Halifax: Nova Scotia's witnessing rules, holograph wills, Canada's highest probate fees, registered partners, and how to start.

Updated 2026-06

Cape Breton (Sydney), Nova Scotia

Making a Will in Cape Breton (Sydney), Nova Scotia

How to make a valid will in Cape Breton (Sydney): Nova Scotia's witnessing rules, probate costs, intestacy, and how to start — updated for 2026.

Updated 2026-06