Justice Minister Tracy-Anne McPhee tabled Bill No. 12 today, proposing amendments to the Wills Act to better reflect the realities of modern society, including provisions to address marriage, divorce, separation and common law relationships.
Proposed amendments to the act clarify the technical requirements for validating a will, provide powers for courts to correct common errors and enable the creation of a registry of wills in the regulations.
The proposed amendments incorporate feedback received through public engagement as well as a review of the Act. The Wills Act has not been amended since first coming into force in 1954.
We heard from Yukoners that they wanted estate legislation which better reflects the changing realities of Yukon families and society. The Government of Yukon is pleased to introduce changes which will modernize the Wills Act and align Yukon legislation with other Canadian jurisdictions. This is another example of our ongoing work to modernize Yukon’s laws for the benefit of Yukoners.
Minister of Justice Tracy-Anne McPhee
These amendments ratify the Convention Providing Uniform Law on the Form of an International Will, increasing the validity of Yukon wills internationally.
Engagement results are shared in a What We Heard document available on EngageYukon. The report incorporates feedback received during our engagement.
Stewart Burnett
Cabinet Communications
867-332-0480
stewart.burnett@gov.yk.ca
Fiona Azizaj
Communications, Justice
867-667-8148
fiona.azizaj@gov.yk.ca