Schedule a Consultation

Is a will legally binding if signed virtually?

BC became the first Canadian province to allow its residents to sign, witness and store their Wills online.
Book a Consultation with Sage Hill Law | Expert Legal Advice and Guidance

Yes, BC became the first Canadian province to allow its residents to sign, witness and store their Wills online. When that well known virus took hold in 2020, the emergency orders in BC allowed, for the first time, Wills to be legally binding when witnessed and signed virtually. When those emergency orders were lifted, the ability to witness and sign Wills virtually was written into law.

Currently, a digital will is valid if witnessed by two independent people in your ‘electronic presence’. This means that your digital signature will be witnessed via a video conference in which the witnesses view and confirm the document that you are digitally signing. In our practice, this is done by a lawyer and legal support staff to ensure that you understand the will you are signing and that any questions you have are answered by legal counsel. 

At Sage Hill Law, you can complete your will from start to finish working virtually with our Lawyer and legal team. You will have a fully, legally binding document without ever having to make trips to a lawyer’s office. 

No matter which avenue you choose, it is always best to confer with a legal professional to ensure that your Will, Enduring Power or Attorney or Representation Agreement is executed correctly and, therefore, legally binding.

Find out more about our estate planning services and book a consultation here.

Stay up to date with the latest legal scoop by signing up for our newsletter.

Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or legal advice. Consult with qualified professionals to create a personalized estate plan suitable for your specific circumstances.

More Posts

Preparing for your first estate planning meeting: What to bring and ask

Preparing for your first estate planning meeting: What to bring and ask

Taking the first step toward estate planning is an important decision, and preparing for your first meeting with an estate planning lawyer does not require having all the answers. Bringing basic information and considering a few key questions can make the discussion more productive and help ensure your plan reflects your wishes.

Moving to BC: Here’s how your out-of-province will is affected

Moving to BC: Here’s how your out-of-province will is affected

Does my out-of-province will still work in BC? It’s a question we hear more often than you might expect, and it’s usually asked with a sense of urgency. If you’ve recently moved to BC from another province, it’s important to understand how your existing will may be affected.

How tax rule changes may affect your estate in British Columbia

How tax rule changes may affect your estate in British Columbia

Estate planning in British Columbia is about more than preparing a will, it also means understanding how tax rules can affect the assets you leave behind. Because tax legislation evolves, periodic reviews can help prevent unexpected complications for executors and beneficiaries.

Disability trusts: Providing for vulnerable beneficiaries

Disability trusts: Providing for vulnerable beneficiaries

Planning for the future of a loved one with Disability requires careful consideration and strategic financial planning. One of the most effective tools for safeguarding their financial security and well-being is a Disability Trust (also called a Special Needs Trust).