A New Way to Meet Your Unique Coverage Needs for Life and Funeral Insurance

We understand the emotional and financial stress that comes along with funeral and end-of-life planning.  Your family shouldn’t be burdened by funeral or medical bills on top of grieving a loss.  That’s why Assuralife is your partner during the final expense life insurance buying process.

We’re dedicated to helping you find the right life insurance policy that works with your needs and budget.

A New Way to Meet Your Unique Coverage Needs for Life and Funeral Insurance

We understand the emotional and financial stress that comes along with funeral and end-of-life planning.  Your family shouldn’t be burdened by funeral or medical bills on top of grieving a loss.  That’s why Assuralife is your partner during the final expense life insurance buying process.

We’re dedicated to helping you find the right life insurance policy that works with your needs and budget.

A New Way to Meet Your Unique Coverage Needs for Life and Funeral Insurance

We understand the emotional and financial stress that comes along with funeral and end-of-life planning.  Your family shouldn’t be burdened by funeral or medical bills on top of grieving a loss.  That’s why Assuralife is your partner during the final expense life insurance buying process.

We’re dedicated to helping you find the right life insurance policy that works with your needs and budget.

A New Way to Meet Your Unique Coverage Needs for Life and Funeral Insurance

We understand the emotional and financial stress that comes along with funeral and end-of-life planning.  Your family shouldn’t be burdened by funeral or medical bills on top of grieving a loss.  That’s why Assuralife is your partner during the final expense life insurance buying process.

We’re dedicated to helping you find the right life insurance policy that works with your needs and budget.

A New Way to Meet Your Unique Coverage Needs for Life and Funeral Insurance

We understand the emotional and financial stress that comes along with funeral and end-of-life planning.  Your family shouldn’t be burdened by funeral or medical bills on top of grieving a loss.  That’s why Assuralife is your partner during the final expense life insurance buying process.

We’re dedicated to helping you find the right life insurance policy that works with your needs and budget.

How to Write Your Will Online For Free

It’s a common misconception that making a will is expensive, or that you have to go to a lawyer to create one. While that’s certainly an option, it’s easier than ever to make a legally valid will online. There are many companies that offer online wills, and though most of them charge for their services, you can make your will for free at freewill.com. The site is able to offer its online will-making tool for free thanks to the support of hundreds of nonprofits.

More than 200,000 people have created their wills on FreeWill because their online questionnaire makes it especially easy to fill out the information you need. Once you’ve completed it, all you have to do is download your pre-filled forms, sign them with witnesses or a notary, and keep them safe. The site even provides suggestions for estate planning attorneys in your area if you prefer to prep your documents and then bring them to a lawyer to check over.

All it takes is twenty minutes to get peace of mind, knowing you and your family are protected and prepared for the future. Set aside your lunch hour today to get started and make your will online.

Eamonn J. Walsh & Co Solicitors is a new progressive and technologically oriented solicitors practice, based in Dublin City Centre.

We intend to offer a personal and professional service to all our clients at a competitive and reasonable cost. Our areas of expertise are in the areas of Accident and Personal Injury Claims, Property and Conveyancing, Probate, Wills & Estate Planning, Family, Business & Commercial, General Litigation as well as other niche areas.

Wills, Estate Planning, Probate and Administration

Eamonn J. Walsh & Co Solicitors are available to provide you with expert advice and legal services in relation to all your Probate and Administration needs including information about wills, estate planning, making an enduring power of attorney (EPA) and Wards of Court applications.

We will guide you through the process in an efficient and effective manner.

Our Services Include:

• Probate and letters of administration (intestacy)
• Making a Will
• Contesting a Will
• Enduring Power of Attorney
• Wardship
• Services for International Lawyers and Non-Residents

You can start by telling us your query via email or over the phone. After discussing your situation with you, we can advise how to proceed. We look forward to hearing from you.

Wilson & Fish Probate Lawyers in Glasgow, Scotland

If you have been appointed the executor of an estate in terms of a will, you must apply to the court to obtain Confirmation to that estate.

This is commonly called ‘applying for probate’ although this terms actually only applies to England and Wales. In Scotland, the correct term for the process of applying for legal permission to wind up an estate is called ‘Confirmation’.

Based in Glasgow, Wilson and Fish’s probate lawyers are specialists in executry and confirmation (the Scottish equivalent of probate). Contact Wilson & Fish today on 0141 413 4328 or fill out our online enquiry form.

Winding Up an Estate in Scotland – Probate & Executry Legal Advice

The legal system in Scotland is distinct from that of England & Wales and there are different rules which apply when it comes to winding up an estate.

The first step in winding up an estate is to apply for legal permission to wind up the estate. This permission is known as ‘a grant of probate’ in England & Wales and as ‘grant of confirmation’ in Scotland. This application is made to the Sheriff court in the area in which the deceased last lived.

Once this permission is granted, you, as the executor (or on of the executors) can begin to wind up the deceased’s estate. Confirmation/probate allows you receive and make payments from/to the deceased’s estate, to ‘in-gather’ the deceased’s assets and to distribute these according to the will.

Nowadays, many estates have an international dimension. As people become better-travelled, it’s more common for us to hold property and assets overseas. If the estate for which you are responsible includes assets or property overseas, or if you are winding up an estate which includes assets located in Scotland, we can help.

Probate Best Practice in Scotland

Legal assistance in winding up an estate in Scotland is not mandatory, but it is something we recommend as best practice.

Knowing what to do after a loved one’s death can be stressful without the added burden of dealing with the legalities of bringing their affairs to an end on your own.

We have extensive experience of executry work in including applying for “probate” in Scotland (confirmation) and can steer you through the process of bringing your loved one’s affairs to an orderly and dignified conclusion.

Enlisting a probate/confirmation lawyer is straightforward, and any legal fees or out-of-pocket expenses are paid by the deceased’s estate.

At Wilson & Fish Solicitors, we can help you:

• Prepare for your role as executor
• Register the death
• Apply for probate/confirmation
• Help with completing the necessary forms and documentation
• Deal with inheritance tax (IHT)
• Locate and identify beneficiaries
• ‘in-gather’ the estate and realising assets including property, investments, pensions, salary and savings
• Distribute the estate
• Deal with any other matters which arise

Contact our Expert Probate Solicitors Glasgow, Scotland

If you have been appointed executor of an estate and need help applying for confirmation, call our probate lawyers on 0141 413 4328 or click here to make an enquiry.

About Tyndallwoods Solicitors

Tyndallwoods Solicitors is a long established law firm based in Edgbaston. We offer a truly personal service to all clients and you can be assured that, whatever advice you need, support will be provided by an experienced team of specialists committed to achieving the best possible outcome for you.

Probate & Estate Administration

When someone dies there are many decisions and arrangements to be made. Unfortunately these often have to be made at a time of personal distress. You may require help with administrative and financial issues.

We will be happy to assist you or guide you at any stage through the complex and complicated area of administering the estate and reduce the pressures and worries of being an executor or administrator. We can help you to apply for a Grant of Probate, where there is a Will or a Grant of Letters of Administration, where there is no Will and the deceased has died intestate. We can also advise you in relation to a Deed of Variation where appropriate.

If you are in the unfortunate position where the estate has become contentious or there is an Inheritance (Provision for Family Dependants) Act 1975 claim, we are also able to help you.

• Probate and Estate Administration
• Application for Grant of Probate
• Grant of Letters of Administration and Intestacy
• Preparation of IHT Accounts
• Application for Transferable Nil Rate Band
• Affidavit of Identity and Plight and Condition
• Deeds of Variation
• Wills and Probate Disputes

Transferable Nil Rate Band

On death, we each have a personal allowance (currently set at £325,000) meaning we do not pay inheritance tax on the first £325,000 of our estate.

The law now allows for a bereaved spouse to claim their late husband or wife’s unused personal inheritance tax allowance (known as the nil rate band). This means that there is potentially £650,000 worth of inheritance tax allowance on the death of the second spouse which can be claimed with the right help.

We can assist you by preparing your application to transfer any unused nil rate band (the inheritance tax free allowance on death) from your late husband, wife or civil partner’s estate which can result in significant tax advantages.

We will be pleased to discuss this with you and advise you whether you may be able to take advantage of this inheritance tax exemption.

Tyndallwoods’ Team offers related services in Employment, Property Litigation, Dispute Resolution & Litigation, Court of Protection and Deputyship, Powers of Attorney, Care of the Elderly and Infirm, Trusts and Trust Management, Will Disputes, Wills.

Wills & Probate Solicitors

Writing a will is one of the most important legal decisions you can make towards safeguarding the long-term security of your spouse, children and assets.

Our specialist wills and probate solicitors work closely with you when drafting a watertight document that is directly in line with your personal circumstances and priorities.

Our solicitors are here to ensure you are making use of all available inheritance tax reliefs and exemptions, and that your assets are protected from the impact of long-term residential fees. Our expertise in drafting more complex will arrangements that account for a range of beneficiaries and trusts, such as enabling clients to make provisions for children or dependants from a previous relationship, is essential to achieve a clear outcome.

Many of our clients simply don’t have time to administer an entire estate themselves, nor to claim all tax exemptions that are available to them. Our wills and probate team can support on as much or as little of the estate administration as is required, from full administration to obtaining a grant of representation. Where appropriate, our lawyers can also advise on the content of supporting documents such as a letter of wishes.

What Happens If You Don’t Register a Will?

Approximately 6 in 10 adults currently living in the UK have not registered a will. This means that these people are leaving their entire estate, finances and assets to the ruling of UK intestacy law – which a person’s family has no control over.

Without a formal will, an unmarried partner does not have automatic entitlement to key aspects of the estate, a family home is liable to be sold and children may be unintentionally disinherited when the eventual ruling is announced. That’s why it always pays to think ahead and prepare for any long-term possibility well in advance.

When May I Require a Probate Specialist?

Regardless of the circumstances surrounding an estate, we would strongly recommend appointing an experienced probate solicitor to manage your situation. A lawyer is particularly important when the deceased died without a will, there are complex agreements in place, the estate is valued over the £325,000 inheritance tax threshold, or there is a possibility that the estate is bankrupt (insolvent).

Our Services

Our experienced wills and probate solicitors can provide the following services:

• Preparation of a will
• Reviewing and updating an existing will
• Estate and inheritance tax planning
• Administration of estates and obtaining grants of representation
• Drafting and administration of trusts
• Inheritance Act and disputed estate claims
• Setting up an asset protection trust
• Lasting Powers of Attorney
• Registration of Enduring Powers of Attorney
• Court of Protection applications

Our probate solicitors and executives help you deal with the administration of estates following the death of a family member or friend. You may be a personal representative or a beneficiary. Many people refer to probate to include not just the grant of probate obtained in relation to a will but also the administration of an estate following an intestacy where there is no will. On this page we use the term probate in that same non-technical way to include both probate in relation to a will and intestacy.

Our Probate Solicitors & Executives

The expertise within our probate team allows them to deal with the most complex of estates and legal issues. We have particular expertise in cross-border estates, issues of foreign succession (especially those relating to France) and domicile issues, as well as business property and heritage issues. The long experience of our probate team also allows us to deal sympathetically and efficiently with probate where there are fewer complexities. We appreciate that clients instruct us at a difficult time in their lives and we understand the importance of giving clear, timely, practical advice.

We aim to give probate clients the comfort of first class and completely reputable representation.
Our probate clients

Many of our probate clients are high-net-worth individuals, members of the legal and accountancy professions and people working at a senior level in the financial sector but we also act for many retired people or individuals who are inexperienced in business affairs. We’re always happy to discuss how we can help clients economise by dealing with some aspects of a probate themselves without taking on unacceptable risks or over-burdensome administration.

Probate Fees

Most of our clients chose to have their fees for probate work calculated on the basis of hourly rates. Our rates compare well with firms of comparable quality. For our clients this will often work out to be the most economical option but it does carry a risk that complications will cause initial estimates to be exceeded. Some clients prefer the re-assurance of a fixed fee and we’re happy to offer a fixed fee basis for probate work if that suits the client best.

Sometimes issues are not limited to dealing with probate because for example disputes arise or there may be special aspects such as a foreign element. We will always discuss and confirm with our client what each charging option involves to allow real choice. We are happy to discuss a reduced percentage basis for estates with a value in excess of £5 million. Often the Russell-Cooke Trust Company acts as an executor without any additional charge.

Comparing Probate Charges

Comparing probate charges can be difficult so we have assembled published information as a briefing called ‘a client’s guide to probate charges’. We think they demonstrate that we provide outstanding value – but judge for yourself.

About DDCS Lawyers Canberra

Our team brings a powerful blend of experience combining the practice of law and academic credentials. Our lawyers are some of Canberra’s best and we pride ourselves on being highly respected by our clients and other professionals.

Everything we do is guided by the needs of our clients. Every member of our team and every part of the process is guided by what YOU as a client need in your unique situation. There is no one size fits all approach and we take great pride in ensuring you get the best outcome.

We’re committed to not only being the very best we can be as lawyers, but as advocates for a range of social issues that may have an impact on us all. We volunteer our time to create awareness on these issues which ultimately makes us more knowledgeable as lawyers and more passionate as professionals.

Estate Planning Process at DCSS

To make sure we have a thorough understanding of your circumstances, we will meet to talk to you about your needs, objectives, priorities and concerns. In our initial meeting with you, we will gather information about your family, your financial circumstances and identify any relevant risks that need to be addressed. We provide you with relevant advice, options and the advantages of each proposed strategy.

We consult with your financial planner, accountant and any other professional advisors as required to ensure your options are designed to encompass all variables. Once you have decided on a preferred estate planning strategy, we will then draft all necessary documents required to implement the plan. We will then meet with you to explain the documents, answer any questions you might have, and have you sign the relevant documents. We also provide a complimentary safe custody service to all our clients so you can have the peace of mind of knowing that your documents are secure.

The team at DDCS have in-depth experience in dealing with family relationships, family dynamics, commercial structures and risk minimisation – we are not one dimensional and we have the skillset to provide multi-faceted advice about the matters that are important to you. As problem-solvers, we can suggest strategies and options to meet your needs, knowing there is no one size fits all approach. With the only Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates in Canberra, DDCS Lawyers provide individual advice and tailor your Will and estate planning documents to meet your specific circumstances.

About McColm Matsinger Lawyers

We are the leading Sunshine Coast law firm, where a team of lawyers work under the McColm Matsinger Lawyers banner, enforcing the firm’s strong principles and philosophies to guarantee clients premium levels of service.  Malcolm and Christine are at the helm of the business handling client requirements as well as ensuring their firm maintains the expertise to meet the more sophisticated demands of the future.

A rarity in the legal field, each of the firm’s lawyers specialise in no more than two areas of law, giving clients a broader range of expertise and the firm an edge over its competitors. The firm is also equipped with the latest technology, so clients are assured of efficient and accurate delivery of legal services.

The team is also happy to meet clients at their home or workplace, either in or outside of normal business hours – you can decide where and when.

Estate Planning

McColm Matsinger Lawyers, Sunshine Coast estate planning lawyers are not only legal experts but have maturity and life experience that enable them to provide you with the very best advice in respect of your estate planning needs.

Estate planning is all about ensuring that the ones you love the most are properly provided for and our experience enables us to understand the intricacies and dynamics of family relationships, as well as the complexities of business, company, trust and superannuation structures which are often necessary to ensure that effective estate planning is implemented for each client.

We will structure your Will and Enduring Power of Attorney to effectively meet both your and your family’s needs.

We will discuss with you, not only your Will and Financial Power of Attorney, but also Family Agreements, Health Powers of Attorney and Advance Health Directives and ensure that your relevant associated documentation (superannuation, company and Trust Deeds) complement your estate planning desires.

Asset Protection

We all work hard to accumulate assets and need to ensure that we have an Asset Protection Plan in place to protect against loss. McColm Matsinger Lawyers are experienced in this area and can tailor a plan that will meet the needs of you and your family to provide total peace of mind.

Contact Us Today

If you need help with a legal matter call our office to speak with our friendly staff.

Alternatively email our office to see how we can assist you.

Why Choose Genders and Partners

Genders & Partners are the oldest law firm in South Australia, and one of the oldest in the whole of Australia. We are still family-owned and operated after three generations. A business cannot remain in business for that long without doing a lot of things right to earn & keep the trust of its clients.

We pride ourselves upon our integrity, personal service and professionalism.

We’re not a legal factory – we are a boutique specialist firm. We listen and take the trouble to understand your needs, and give you friendly and sensible advice. We keep you informed of progress in your matter so you always know where you stand. We provide personal care and attention in all aspects of your claim.

Some lawyers have a reputation of seeming to be a bit intimidating and remote – but you’ll be pleasantly surprised how approachable and down-to-earth we are at Genders and Partners.

Wills & Estate Planning

Many people mistakenly believe that having a simple legal Will covers all their needs, yet a Will alone is only one piece of the legal protection puzzle. Put your affairs in order, and learn how to protect yourself, your family and your assets with modern integrated estate planning.

Without integrated estate planning, you’re leaving your wealth and assets quite vulnerable and unprotected. In some circumstances, it can mean the difference between losing your home, your independence and quality of life OR keeping them when unexpected events arise, like an accident or illness that leaves you incapacitated.

Dying Without a Valid Will

If you die without a Will, this is called dying intestate, and your estate may then be divided according to a Government formula – which may not reflect your wishes and which may cause undue hardship, cost and delay for your family. In situations where you have no living relatives closer than cousins, your estate may go to the State Government.

Relationships

A Will is particularly important to update after marriage, divorce or if you are living in a domestic or de facto relationship. Other people can also make a claim to your estate if not adequately provided for under a Will.

DIY Danger

People who use DIY Will Kits think that they did the right thing, filled the form correctly, and mentioned all what they want to say. However, their lack of legal knowledge places their family at great risk, because it is far too easy for them to make terrible mistakes in the DIY Will, which won’t be revealed until after they’ve died, when it is too late to fix them.

Every DIY Will Kit contains a disclaimer that the instructions they provide are not a substitute for legal advice. Why would you rely on this, when they offer no backup or support for your family after you’re gone?

These kits are really just expensive stationery. They don’t offer any real guidance or security.

Any mistakes you make with those DIY Will Kits won’t become known until after you’re gone, and then it will be too late to fix them.

Trying to fix problems with a DIY Will Kit frequently involves expensive litigation, delays and massive stress for your loved ones.

Making a Will is a specialised area of law, requiring expertise, time and planning.

Don’t risk your family’s future. Consult an expert lawyer specialising in Wills and Estate Planning.

Issues to Consider

When thinking about making your Will, you need to also consider your superannuation and life insurance, any debts owed by or to yourself, jointly-owned property, care & guardianship of vulnerable & young family-members, family businesses, trusts, companies, and much more.

Your Will is one of the most important legal documents you’ll ever sign.

It’s the only way, on your death, to direct who is to take charge of your affairs and to ensure your assets will be distributed to the beneficiaries you choose in the way you want.

Will making is a highly specialised task, with potentially complex financial, legal and tax implications that need to be considered to ensure that your estate is distributed as you wish.

We invite you to contact us for a free consultation at no obligation.

About Aitken Whyte Lawyers Brisbane

Aitken Whyte Lawyers is a proactive Brisbane law firm based in the CBD. We act for a wide range of clients, from individuals to large corporations and commercial clients and in a wide range of practice areas.

As our valued client you will benefit from the experience we have in addressing legal problems. Our lawyers are effective communicators and good listeners, but you will find they are also dedicated to achieving results for you and focused on your matter. Our solicitors demonstrate and maintain the strictest personal and professional ethics at all times.

Wills & Probate

Our Brisbane Lawyers provide a full service to our clients to create Wills and administer estates. A will is the most important document most of us will ever sign. It is usually the only way we can ensure our assets are distributed in the way we intend after we die.

Due to uncertainties of life, we recommend you don’t delay in making a Will or changing one to meet your wishes. All too often we put off arranging our affairs, thinking we will have plenty of time in the future to sort everything out. Dying without a Will more than likely will have the result that your estate is not distributed how you would have wanted.

The general matters you need to consider before drafting a Will include:

• who will be the executors and trustees of your estate;
• are there any specific gifts that you would like to leave such as family heir looms to particular recipients;
• who will be the recipients of the remainder of your estate and in what proportions.

You can name guardians for your children, establish trusts and donate to worthy charities through the use of your Will. You can also make it known if you want to donate organs, be buried or cremated and what you where you want your remains to finally rest.

You should review your Will regularly to make sure that it meets your current needs and wishes. Our solicitors recommend that you consider this important document at least once every 3 years and every time there is a change in circumstances in your life. There are events that arise in that may act to invalidate your Will or parts of your Will, for example, marriage and divorce. Also consider if you have children or grandchildren if their interests are considered in your current Will. If an executor or trustee you have nominated is no longer able to act, then that should also be changed.

Aitken Whyte Lawyers are not only able to assist you with your estate arrangements, but can represent you if things go wrong; you may have been omitted from a will or arrangements made need defending. See Contesting Wills for more information.
Powers of attorney

Powers of attorneys can be as important documents as Wills and in most cases, we provide an enduring power of attorney free of charge with each Will we draft. Powers of Attorney allow a nominated person or persons to perform various functions on your behalf. Such functions could include dealing with your finances or health matters if you are incapacitated or simply making decisions on your behalf in your absence. Powers of Attorney can be for a single event, for example, signing a document whilst you are on holidays or alternatively for an indefinite period.

There are two types of power of attorney:

• general power of attorney; and
• enduring power of attorney.

A general power of attorney is used to give someone the power to make financial decisions for you when you are away such as overseas and need someone else to sell your house or meet other financial obligations. An enduring power of attorney is generally used for when you are unable to make decisions for yourself, usually due to illness or an accident. A decision of your attorney has the same effect as if you made the decision yourself.

You will need to register the power of attorney in Queensland with the Land Titles Office if the attorney is buying or selling land on your behalf. You are able to revoke a power of attorney at any time. There are instances where a power of attorney will come to end as well, such as if you get married, divorced or die, so you need to keep in mind that changes may need to be made in certain situations or new powers prepared.

About Owen Hodge Lawyers

Owen Hodge Lawyers Sydney commenced providing legal services to the St George and Sutherland communities in 1951. Since then our Sydney Law Firm has grown considerably, developing a reputation for quality legal services, value for money and a strong commitment. Today, Owen Hodge Lawyers provide expert legal services to a diverse range of individual and commercial clients across the Sydney metropolitan and surrounding areas with offices in Sydney City and Hurstville.

Our vision is to enhance the lives of our clients by providing for their financial and legal requirements in the acquisition of wealth, protection and management of assets and the transfer of wealth throughout generations.

Why Estate Planning Is So Important

Estate Planning is often left by people until it is too late. It is a useful tool for you and your estate to provide certainty and save expense in the long term.

An estate planning lawyer can provide certainty and peace of mind. Planning for death is generally an issue that is neglected by many Australians. Around 40% of Australians die each year without a Will or any significant Estate Planning and many of the remainder die with wills that do not reflect their current needs.

There are legal issues that must be taken into account when you are considering your estate planning and financial plans and our expert estate lawyers in Sydney are here to help. How you structure your will, the appointment of trustees, how your estate is distributed and the appointment of guardians for any children are all vital issues that should be addressed in your Will.

There may be circumstances where trusts should be established after your death or life interests created.

Our estate planning lawyers are able to advise you and assist you in the preparation of Wills and Estate Planning issues such as Powers of Attorney and Guardianship appointments. We can also discuss Advance Directives with you if you want to leave directions to your guardian should you become incapable of making a health or welfare decision.

You only have one chance to get your Will or Estate Planning right. Once you have passed away, the Will cannot be changed without the intervention of the Supreme Court, the cost of which Will far outweigh the cost of seeing your solicitor. It is therefore important that you get it right the first time!

How to Make a Will?

Firstly, it is important to contact Owen Hodge Lawyers for your Estate Planning Assessment. The process is flexible and consultative. Estate planning requires a lot of careful consideration as well as a number of documents and forms, including wills, power of attorney forms, and living wills.

An initial meeting with Owen Hodge’s Estate Planning lawyers will establish your values, vision and goals, ahead of a seven step process that will guide you from your initial objectives to post-implementation reviews.

We will provide clear instructions and advice on the preparation of Wills, testamentary trusts and Power of Attorney as well as all relevant documentation including legal notifications to guardians.

Protecting Your Wishes Through Wills, Trusts & Estates

Merovitz Potechin LLP is committed to helping individuals and families plan for the future. Our lawyers are able to handle all estate issues that can impact you, your loved ones, your property and your finances.

By organizing your affairs in accordance with a properly prepared estate plan, you can ensure that your wishes and the needs of your family are met while minimizing the tax obligation.

Your Estate Plan

There are numerous options and issues to consider, particularly for clients planning personal estates and establishing trusts. Our trusted team of experienced lawyers will walk you through the process so your family and wealth are protected.

We can guide you through a swift and satisfactory resolution to any dispute. Our lawyers assist clients with all types of estate issues, including:

• Drafting and revising a will
• Contesting a will
• Establishing a trust
• Providing ongoing advice to estate trustees and executors
• Representing your interests in litigation relating to the Will and the Estate

Our Background

Our wills and estate lawyers and our estate litigation lawyers are members of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP). STEP is a multidisciplinary organization of professionals operating globally and includes many of the most experienced and senior practitioners in the field, including lawyers, accountants, financial planners, insurance advisers and trust professionals. Accredited STEP practitioners provide domestic and international advice on trusts and estates, including planning, administration and tax implications.

Providing Personal Service And Attention

Your estate plan offers a wide range of protection, but only if it is drafted properly. As your lawyers, we have extensive experience handling complex estate matters in Ottawa and throughout Ontario. We will ensure that your rights and interests are always put first.

We provide personal service and individual attention to every client. You will always know what steps we are taking to resolve any disputes and to help you achieve your goals. We are here to help, whether you need to prepare a will or trust or need zealous representation with respect to probate applications or issues.

Wills, Estate Planning, Probate and Estate Administration

A carefully prepared Will is the first step to sound estate planning. We provide experienced thoughtful advice and assistance in Will preparation as well as other critical estate planning tools.

Enduring Powers of Attorney

An Enduring Power of Attorney is a legally binding document that allows you to transfer the management of your financial and legal affairs to another person of your choice (your “Attorney”).  Your Attorney will be able to deal with your assets and financial matters on your behalf if you become mentally incapacitated. We can help you create an Enduring Power of Attorney and explain to you its legal implications and advantages to you and your family.

Personal Directives

A Personal Directive is a document that provides directions regarding who can make decisions about your personal matters, including medical treatment, if a you become mentally incapacitated.  A Personal Directive allows you to appoint a person whom you trust, (your “Agent”) to make and carry out these decisions for you.

Advice and Assistance to Attorneys, Agents, Personal Representatives, Guardians and Trustees

Usually a person called upon to administer an estate (a “Personal Representative”) has no prior experience. The task of estate administration involves significant legal obligations and liabilities. The process can be complex, time consuming and frustrating, and for these reasons, may seem overwhelming at the outset. We can provide advice and answers to all your questions and guide you through the entire process in an understanding and practical manner.

Court Applications Pursuant to Adult Guardian and Trustee Legislation

Our lawyers can provide services in matters related to the Alberta Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act. We can assist in preparing the required documents and making any necessary court applications.

Probate Applications

The Personal Representatives of a Will often have to obtain a legal document issued by the Court known as the “Grant of Probate”. This document confirms the validity of the Will and authorizes the Personal Representatives to take control of the deceased’s assets. The application process has many legal requirements and is very detailed. Because of our experience, we can ensure that your application is properly prepared and presented to the Court.

Administration Applications

We can assist clients in contested estate matters that arise from poorly written or improperly signed Wills, dependent relief legislation, elder abuse, undue influence, insufficient capacity, and fiduciary duty breaches. Regardless of the nature of the dispute or the people involved, our litigation group always approaches each case from a sensitive and pragmatic viewpoint. We ably champion our clients’ interests in Court if a negotiated settlement is unattainable.

Estate and Succession Planning

Prowse Chowne LLP has expertise in all areas of estate and succession planning.  We provide sophisticated legal and financial planning advice to businesses and individuals. Our mandate is to achieve our clients’ goals by:

• Analyzing clients’ business and personal needs and objectives;
• Advising clients about taxes, Wills, Trusts, Enduring Powers of Attorney, Personal Directives, Unanimous Shareholder Agreements, Life Insurance and other planning tools;
• Assisting clients with charitable giving through trusts, foundations and other mechanisms;
• Identifying and resolving potentially troublesome issues in advance;
• Implementing practical solutions to unique client problems.

Through sound, practical and professional estate and succession planning, our clients’ needs such as wealth preservation, tax minimization, orderly succession of a business between generations, charitable giving and the easing family distress at times of illness or death can all be achieved.

Westcoast Wills & Estates

We are different

Based in North Vancouver, Westcoast Wills and Estates is a unique law firm.  Our wills lawyers and probate lawyers offer:

• Flexible meeting times – Our estate planning lawyers are available weekdays and evenings to accommodate your busy schedule.
• Mobile service – Our lawyers can plan your estate either at our office at 308 – 1200 Lonsdale Avenue or from the comfort of your own home anywhere in North or West Vancouver, Vancouver, Burnaby, Port Moody or Coquitlam.
• Personal, focused, professional service – We are wills lawyers who practice only in the areas of estate planning law and probate law.  We provide personal, caring and comprehensive advice.
• Competitive rates – our rates are highly competitive; contact us for further details.
• Responsible business – we donate 3% of all purchases to charity, we use sustainably sourced paper, and we strive to reduce our carbon footprint.

Estate Planning for Peace of Mind

With Westcoast Wills and Estates, an estate planning lawyer will help you develop a comprehensive estate plan, which may include us preparing some of the following documents for you:

• a Will
• a Power of Attorney
• a Representation Agreement
  
• an Alter Ego trust
• a Joint Partner trust
• Beneficiary Declarations, including trusts, for RRSPs, Insurance policies, TFSAs, Pension Plans etc.
• a Nomination of Committee
• a Living Will or an Advance Directive

Probate & Committeeship Services

A probate lawyer from Westcoast Wills & Estates can ease the burden on executors and estate administrators.  The stresses of being an executor of a will can often be overwhelming.  Our probate lawyers can help as much or as little as needed with the probate application or otherwise.

Our committeeship lawyers can apply to court on your behalf for an appointment of committee.  This is most often needed when a person becomes incapacitated and they have not already given a power of attorney over their finances to someone else.  In this case, all bank accounts that are held only in their name are effectively frozen.  If your loved one is in this situation, someone may have to be appointed as their committee of person and estate.