Where can I find copies of wills (probate records)?
The probate records kept by the Surrogate Courts are the most informative court records from the genealogical standpoint. In the will filed in these records, members of the family of the deceased are usually mentioned and an indication of his material wealth and the ultimate division of the estate can be determined. Even when someone has died intestate (without leaving a will), probate records of the administration of the estate may list property and legal heirs, and may designate one or more executors. Probate records created before 1958 will be found in the Surrogate Court of one of the 14 permanent court locations nearest to the residence of the deceased. Since 1958, wills can be probated at any one of the judicial centres in the province, and genealogists might now look in the centre closest to the residence of the executor of the will as well. Copies of all probated wills are also filed with the Surrogate Registrar at the Regina Court House but are accessible only if the full name
