Will Search in Quebec
A will search is an important step after a death. It allows you to verify if the deceased person left a registered will and to obtain the necessary certificates to proceed with certain estate settlement steps.
What is the purpose of a will search?
A will search is used to confirm the existence or absence of a will registered in official records. This process helps avoid settling an estate without having verified if a more recent will exists.
Is it mandatory?
Yes. After a death, a will search must be conducted to verify if a will exists and to confirm that the estate settlement process is based on the most recent known will.
What does the will search certificate contain?
The will search certificate confirms the result of the search. It can indicate if a will is registered and, if so, with which professional or registry it is kept.
Does the certificate contain the will?
No. The certificate does not contain the will. It confirms the result of the search. If a will is found, a copy must be requested from the location indicated on the certificate or according to the applicable procedures.
Which documents are required?
To submit a request, it is generally necessary to provide information regarding the deceased person, the applicant’s contact details, and official proof of death, such as a death certificate or a copy of an act of death. You may submit a death certificate directly to DOCUGO.
Who can make the request?
The request can be made by an authorized person, such as a relative, a liquidator, or an authorized representative. DOCUGO assists these individuals with the preparation, submission, and administrative follow-up of the request.
Regular or expedited service
DOCUGO offers both regular and expedited services. The expedited service can be useful when a bank, a professional, or estate proceedings require search certificates quickly. Consult view DOCUGO rates to compare the two options.
What DOCUGO does for you
DOCUGO assists you in preparing the request, validating information, transmitting required documents, administrative follow-up, and delivering available results. To learn about each step, consult the page to understand the process.
Start a will search
You can start your request online. The secure form allows you to submit the required information and, if available, your death certificate or copy of an act of death.
DOCUGO provides administrative assistance. For any legal questions, please consult a notary or a lawyer. Consult our frequently asked questions about will searches as well.