06/26/2026
Families in BC often hear conflicting advice about probate and whether they can ‘avoid court’ altogether. Here are three common myths:
1. ‘My family knows what I want, so we don’t need probate.’�Without a valid will — and where banks, investment firms, or the Land Title Office require probate — the estate is handled under BC law, not based on informal conversations.
2. ‘If we put everything in joint names, we avoid probate.’�Joint ownership can affect how certain assets pass, but it is not a one‑size‑fits‑all solution and can create other legal and tax issues if not planned carefully.
3. ‘Probate always takes years.’�Some estates are complex, but many straightforward files can proceed more efficiently when documents are in order and information is complete.
This post is general information only and is not legal advice. It does not create a lawyer‑client relationship.�If you have questions about whether probate is required in BC, contact Kirti Law Corporation to discuss your situation.”