A person who watches the testator sign and signs in turn.
In Islamic law
Islamic practice values two upright witnesses to a bequest. The Canadian rule adds a disqualification the classical rules approach differently.
In Canadian law
Most provinces require two. A beneficiary — or a beneficiary's spouse — should never witness, because the gift to them may be void even though the will stands.
No significant difference between the four Sunni schools is recorded on this point in the sources reviewed. Where a specific case turns on it, ask a qualified scholar rather than relying on a general summary.
Canadian legal detail
Treadstone Law, an Ontario firm with a wills and estates practice, covers the Canadian side of this in more depth:
- Burden of proof in a will challenge ontario
- Does spouse inherit if no will ontario
- Electronic will valid ontario
This entry is general information, not legal or religious advice. Inheritance turns on the exact family circumstances. Confirm Canadian law with a lawyer in your province, and any religious ruling with a qualified scholar.