Ottawa · Estate Law · ProbateProbate & Estate
Administration in Ottawa
Guiding executors through every step of the Ontario probate process — clearly, efficiently, and with care.
What is probate, and how does it work in Ontario?
Without this certificate, banks, investment firms, and the Land Registry Office will not release or transfer estate assets — even if you are named executor in the will.
Estate administration refers to everything that follows: paying debts and taxes, notifying CRA, filing the deceased's final tax return, and distributing assets to beneficiaries according to the will or, where no will exists, Ontario's Succession Law Reform Act.
The process can be straightforward or complex depending on the estate's size, asset types, and whether disputes arise. Our job is to make it as smooth as possible — so you can focus on your family.
Key Ontario terms
Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee (CAAT)
Ontario’s official term for what is commonly called a “probate grant.” Required by banks, investment firms, and the Land Registry Office before assets can be transferred.
Estate Administration Tax (EAT)
Ontario’s probate fee. No tax on the first $50,000 of estate value; $15 per $1,000 above that threshold. Paid to the court when the application is filed.
Estate Trustee
Ontario’s term for an executor — the person responsible for administering the estate. Named in the will, or appointed by the court if no will exists.
Intestate
Dying without a valid will. The estate is distributed under the Succession Law Reform Act, not according to personal wishes.
Who we helpEvery estate situation is different
Your probate specialist
Brandy Crawford
Estate Administration Specialist · J. Solomon Law Professional Corporation
Brandy focuses on probate and estate administration, guiding Ottawa-area executors through every stage of the Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee process. She brings a clear, methodical approach to even the most complex estates — ensuring documents are filed correctly, assets are properly inventoried, and all CRA obligations are met.
She is known for her responsiveness, her ability to explain the process in plain language, and her commitment to keeping things moving without unnecessary delays.
Working alongside founding lawyer Jonathan Solomon, Brandy has helped Ottawa families navigate estates ranging from straightforward single-property files to multi-jurisdictional estates with business interests and competing beneficiary claims.
What to expectHow we guide you through probate in Ontario
Costs & feesWhat does probate cost in Ontario?
Ontario charges an Estate Administration Tax (EAT) based on the total value of assets passing through the estate. There is no tax on the first $50,000. Above that, the rate is $15 per $1,000 of estate value.
Note that certain assets pass outside the estate and are not subject to this tax — including jointly held property with right of survivorship, registered accounts (RRSPs, TFSAs, RRIFs) with named beneficiaries, and life insurance proceeds.
Example: A $600,000 estate consisting of a $400,000 property and $200,000 in bank accounts would carry an Estate Administration Tax of approximately $8,250.
Our legal fees for probate and estate administration are discussed transparently at your first consultation — before any commitment is made.
| Estate value | Estate Administration Tax (approx.) |
|---|---|
| First $50,000 | No fee |
| $50,001 – $100,000 | ~$750 |
| $100,001 – $250,000 | ~$2,250 – $3,000 |
| $250,001 – $500,000 | ~$3,000 – $6,750 |
| $500,001 – $1,000,000 | ~$6,750 – $14,250 |
| Over $1,000,000 | $14,250 + $15 per additional $1,000 |
Rate: no tax on first $50,000; $15 per $1,000 above that. Source: Ontario Estate Administration Tax Act. Figures are approximate.
Common questionsFrequently asked questions about probate in Ottawa
How long does probate take in Ontario?
Once your application is properly prepared and filed, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice typically processes a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee in 4 to 8 weeks. Complex estates, missing documents, or disputes can extend this timeline. We prepare your application carefully to avoid preventable delays — and we let you know upfront if any complications might affect timing.
What are probate fees in Ontario?
Ontario charges an Estate Administration Tax on the portion of the estate passing through probate. There is no tax on the first $50,000. Above that threshold, the rate is $15 per $1,000 of estate value. A $500,000 estate, for example, would carry approximately $6,750 in probate fees. This is paid to the court at filing and is separate from any legal fees.
Do I need a lawyer to apply for probate in Ontario?
You are not legally required to hire a lawyer, but most executors choose to. The application involves precise legal documents, an accurate asset inventory, correct Estate Administration Tax calculations, and an Estate Information Return filed with the Ministry of Finance. Errors cause the court to return the application, creating delays that can last months. A lawyer ensures it is done correctly the first time — which usually costs less than correcting a rejected application.
What is a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee?
A Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee (CAAT) is the document issued by the Ontario Superior Court of Justice that officially confirms the executor’s legal authority to deal with estate assets. Financial institutions, the Land Registry Office, and most other asset holders require this certificate before they will transfer or release anything. It is what is commonly called “probate” in everyday language — Ontario simply uses a different formal term.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Ottawa?
If someone dies without a valid will in Ontario, they are said to have died intestate. The estate is distributed according to Ontario’s Succession Law Reform Act — not according to anyone’s personal wishes. A family member can apply to the court to be appointed as Estate Trustee Without a Will. We help families through this process, which involves additional steps compared to a standard probate application.
Do all assets have to go through probate?
No. Assets held jointly with right of survivorship — such as a jointly owned home or a joint bank account — pass directly to the surviving owner outside probate. Life insurance proceeds and registered accounts (RRSPs, TFSAs, RRIFs) with named beneficiaries also pass directly. Proper estate planning can significantly reduce the portion of an estate subject to the Estate Administration Tax. If you have not yet done estate planning, our wills and estate planning team can help.
Why Choose Estate
Law Ottawa?
A dedicated probate specialist:
Brandy [Last Name] focuses on estate administration — it is not a sideline for her. You work directly with a lawyer who knows Ontario probate inside and out.
Responsive communication:
Our clients consistently highlight our response times. When you reach out, you hear back promptly with a clear answer — not weeks later.
Done right the first time:
Court applications returned for errors cause months of delay. We prepare every application meticulously, double-checking asset valuations, tax calculations, and filing requirements before anything is submitted.
Transparent fees:
We discuss our fees at the outset before you commit. There are no surprises. We also help you understand the Estate Administration Tax so you know the full picture from day one.
Compassionate approach:
Estate administration happens during one of the hardest times a family faces. We handle the legal complexity so you do not have to — with patience and genuine care for your situation.
Full-firm support:
When estates touch family law, property disputes, or corporate holdings, founding lawyer Jonathan Solomon and the broader team provide seamless support — no outside referrals needed.
Related servicesWe can help with more than just probate
Probate & Estate Administration Inquiry
If you prefer to call, reach us at (613) 627-2100 during business hours.