One of the greatest mistakes is dying without a valid will.

This results in “intestacy,” which is another way of saying that the province will force its own will upon the heirs it chooses.

Too many wills have not been updated. A will should be reviewed at least:

• At the birth, adoption, or death of a child.

• Upon the marriage, divorce, or separation of anyone named in the will.

• Upon every major tax law change.

• Upon a move of the testator to a new state.

• On a significant change in income or wealth of either the testator or a beneficiary.

• On any major change in the needs, circumstances, or objectives of the testator or the beneficiaries.