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Settling an Estate in Quebec

A person’s death opens an estate, which must be settled. This page explains general concepts and identifies the competent official authorities; it is not a substitute for professional advice.

What this means

Settling an estate includes locating the will, identifying the heirs, inventorying assets and debts and rendering an account. The Directeur de l’état civil issues death certificates. Notaries play a central role in several of these steps in Quebec.

Common situations

  • Death with a notarial will
  • Death without a will
  • A will search to be carried out
  • Disagreement among heirs
  • An estate carrying debts
  • Assets located outside Quebec

General process

Procedures vary depending on the court, tribunal or circumstances. Consult the official government resources below or speak with a qualified legal professional.

Official government information

Documents commonly requested

Depending on your situation, the documents requested may vary.

  • Death certificate from the Directeur de l’état civil
  • The will, or the result of the will search
  • Property titles and bank statements
  • The deceased’s tax returns
  • A list of known debts

Frequently asked questions

Where can I obtain a death certificate?

From the Directeur de l’état civil du Québec, which publishes the procedure and official fees.

How do I find out whether a will exists?

Will searches may be requested from the Chambre des notaires du Québec and the Barreau du Québec, which describe the process on their official sites.

You may wish to speak with a qualified legal professional if your situation involves deadlines, significant amounts, or disputed facts. Individualised advice is often necessary.

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Related practice areas

Wills LawyersTrust LawyersProbate LawyersEstate Administration LawyersPower of Attorney LawyersEstate Litigation Lawyers

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Disclaimer

This page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws and procedures may change, and every situation is unique. If you need advice about your specific circumstances, consult a qualified lawyer or legal professional. MTLPages is not a law firm.