Eliminate Unnecessary Stress and Worrying
It is never too early to start estate planning. It is necessary to protect your estate, your loved ones and yourself. We work closely with our clients and their financial advisors to assist them with their estate planning needs
How We Can Support Your Needs
Wills, Trusts & Estates
Don't navigate your challenges alone. We're ready to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Need help with any of the following?
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Wills and Codicils
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Enduring Power of Attorney (for financial decisions)
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Representation Agreements (for personal and health care decisions)
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Family Trust
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Committee Application
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Probate Application
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Letters of Administration
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Assisting Executors with the Will administration and asset distribution process
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Advising Beneficiaries of their rights
You will receive a response within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our goal is to help you understand your rights and the legal process.
If your question isn't listed or requires personalized assistance, we encourage you to contact our office directly through the button below.
Have you been named the Executor of a Will?
“We are sorry to hear about your loss. As an executor of a will, you must not deal with the assets of the deceased until a grant of probate or grant of administration has been issued by the Supreme Court of British Columbia. You must be aware of the duties you have as an executor. Being an executor can be stressful, but we are ready to help and assist you through this process.”
What is a Grant of Probate or Grant of Administration?
The grant of probate is a document issued by the Supreme Court of British Columbia that confirms the executor named in the will has the legal authority to deal with the deceased’s estate.
The grant of administration is a document issued by the Supreme Court of British Columbia in the following cases:
– No will was left by the deceased.
– The executor named in the will is unwilling or unable to be appointed as the executor.
– The court determines that the will is not valid.
– This document allows the individual named as the administrator to handle the estate.
What are my duties as an Executor?
The basic duties of the executor or administrator include the following:
– Completing an inventory and valuation of all assets and debts.
– Gathering names and addresses of all beneficiaries and next-of-kin.
– Cancelling subscriptions and charge cards, redirecting mail and wrapping up other personal matters.
– Taking control of all assets, including the transfer of ownership registrations and the collection of any debts.
– Paying all valid or proven debts left to the estate (the executor or administrator may be held personally liable for these debts if they remain unpaid after the distribution of the estate).
– Filing tax returns for the deceased and for the estate.
– Selling assets as necessary and distributing the estate.
– Preparing and obtaining approval from the beneficiaries, heirs-at-law or the court for accounts showing assets, receipts, disbursements, and distribution of the estate.
What is Probate?
Probate is the process in which the validity of the will of a deceased is determined under the laws of British Columbia. During this time, the deceased’s assets cannot be dealt with until the court has issued the grant of probate or grant of administration. Probate is important to ensure that the will of the deceased’s is the final will and reflects their wishes.