COUPLES URGED TO UPDATE WILLS

Released on March 8, 2002

People living in common law relationships should update their wills to

ensure their wishes will be carried out after their deaths because of

recent changes to The Wills Act.



Previously, marriage revoked a will - meaning a will that a person made

prior to marriage became null and void immediately following marriage. As

a result of amendments to The Wills Act, the wills of people who have been

living in common-law relationships for two years are also revoked.



Wills made after a person marries or has been in a common law relationship

for two years are valid. As well, a will made prior to the two-year mark

will be valid if it specifically refers to the soon to be established

spousal relationship.



The amendment also applies to common-law relationships involving same-sex

couples.



To prevent disputes and ensure estates are handled according to their

wishes, people are urged to check their wills and make new ones if

necessary. People are also urged to contact a lawyer for assistance.



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For more information, contact:



Jeff Bohach

Justice

Regina

Phone: (306) 787-5657