Probate
Probate is the court process that confirms a will is valid and confirms the executor's authority to deal with the deceased's assets. In BC it is a grant from the Supreme Court; where there is no will or no executor able to act, the court grants administration to an administrator.
How BC law treats it
Estates are governed by the Wills, Estates and Succession Act, SBC 2009, c 13 (WESA). There is no value threshold for probate; it is needed when asset holders such as banks or the Land Title Office require a grant, and probate fees under the Probate Fee Act, SBC 1999, c 4 apply to estates over $25,000.
What it means for your business
Shares in a private company held by a deceased owner may require a grant before they can be dealt with, delaying business decisions.
Risks and common mistakes
Without succession planning, a business may be left with no one authorized to act until a grant is obtained.
Browse the full Fulcrum Law Dictionary for related terms.
General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.
