Do You Need a Lawyer to Make a Will in Nova Scotia?
Last updated 2026-06 · Nova Scotia
No — Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia-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 Nova Scotia — especially U.S. real estate.
- High estate value where Nova Scotia's tiered, roughly 1.7% on amounts over $100,000 probate cost matters.
- Anticipated disputes — estranged spouse, capacity questions, second family.
What a Nova Scotia 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 Nova Scotia? No — self-drafted and online wills are valid if properly signed and witnessed. Can I write my own will in Nova Scotia? Yes — fully handwritten and signed is a valid holograph will. How much does a will cost in Nova Scotia? A simple lawyer-drafted will is typically $400–$800; online services are usually under $200. Are online wills legal in Nova Scotia? Yes, once printed and signed before two witnesses.
Not legal advice. General information about Nova Scotia law as of 2026. Confirm specifics with a Nova Scotia estate lawyer.
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