What Happens If I Die Without a Will in BC?

Who Takes Control of My Estate If I Die Without a Will?

If you die without a will in British Columbia, no executor has been legally appointed to manage your estate. Instead, the court must decide who will take on that responsibility.

The person appointed by the court is known as an administrator. This process can take time and often requires legal paperwork and court approval. In some cases, more than one family member may apply to be the administrator, which can lead to delays, added costs, and disagreements during an already difficult period.

Who Gets My Assets?

When there is no will, BC law sets out strict rules that determine who inherits your estate. While spouses and children are often included, these rules may not reflect your personal wishes or family structure.

This can be especially problematic for blended families, common-law relationships, or situations where you intended to leave assets to specific individuals. Without a will, there is no flexibility—the law decides how your estate is divided.

Why Is This a Problem?

Without clear instructions, estates often take longer to settle and cost more to administer. Court involvement, legal fees, and uncertainty can place unnecessary strain on families and increase the risk of conflict.

Creating a will allows you to choose who manages your estate, who receives your assets, and how matters are handled—helping to reduce delays, costs, and stress for your loved ones.

If you have questions about wills or estate planning in British Columbia, contact our White Rock office to discuss your options and ensure your wishes are clearly documented.