Why witnessing matters
Ontario’s rules are strict. We make them simple.
- Two witnesses, present together (SLRA s. 4). Neither may be a beneficiary or a beneficiary’s spouse — or that gift can be void (s. 12).
- Affidavit of Execution (Form 74D) sworn by a witness before a commissioner — the court asks for it at probate.
- Virtual signing is allowed when at least one witness is a Law Society of Ontario licensee (SLRA s. 4(3)).
Markham in-person
15 minutes · witnesses & commissioner provided
GTA virtual video
With an LSO licensee witness (Tier 3)
The Ontario execution gap
A Will that isn’t properly signed is just a document
Ontario requires your signature in front of two witnesses at the same time — and probate courts expect a sworn Affidavit of Execution. Here’s how the options compare.
| Typical DIY Online Wills | Traditional Estate Lawyer | islamicwillnow.comBest of both | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | $30–$150 | $1,200–$2,500 | From $100 CAD · couples from $160 |
| Time to a draft | Same day | ~4 weeks | Instant draft |
| Sharia-compliant Faraid | Rarely — generic templates | Depends on the lawyer | Built in, all 4 Sunni madhhabs |
| Two witnesses | You hunt for 2 non-beneficiaries | Provided | 2 professional witnesses provided |
| Affidavit of Execution (Form 74D) | Figure it out yourself | Included | Pre-filled + commissioned on site |
| Signing | Print & DIY | At the firm | 15-min Markham or GTA virtual |
| 1-on-1 Ontario lawyer consultation Only us among online Wills | Not offered | Included — in a $1,200+ fee | Tier 3 — from $499 total, signing included |
Tier 3 · Lawyer Review
A licensed Ontario lawyer, for a fraction of a law-firm fee
Typical online Will platforms stop at a template. Tier 3 adds a 1-on-1 review with an Ontario lawyer — Family Law Act spousal election, joint tenancy and RRSP beneficiaries, and capacity — plus your witnessed signing in Markham or by video.
Tier 1 Will + $399 lawyer review · save $701+ vs. a law firm
Start with Lawyer Review“It is not right for a Muslim who has something to bequeath to spend two nights without having his will written down.”
Sahih al-Bukhari 2738