Estate Planning in BC
Estate planning in British Columbia involves making arrangements for the management and distribution of your assets during your lifetime and after your death, as well as ensuring that your healthcare decisions are respected if you become incapacitated. Without proper estate planning, the court may need to intervene, potentially causing delays, unnecessary legal complications, or disputes over your estate.
Under BC law, a well-designed estate plan can provide peace of mind, ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes and that your family avoids future challenges.
Key Components of Estate and Incapacity Planning in BC include:
- Wills: A will is a legal document under BC law that sets out how your assets will be distributed after your death. It also allows you to appoint an executor to manage the estate and ensure that your wishes are carried out.
- Powers of Attorney: A power of attorney allows you to appoint someone to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
- Representation Agreements: This document allows you to appoint a Representative to help you make, or make, personal and healthcare decisions if you’re unable to make them yourself.
By working with Alder Law to create a comprehensive estate plan tailored to BC law, you protect your assets and loved ones, and ensure your estate is handled smoothly after your passing.
Alder Law’s Wills and Estate Services
At Alder Law, we offer a full spectrum of wills and estates legal services, including:
- Will Preparation and Updates: We assist with drafting or updating your will, ensuring your wishes regarding asset distribution, guardianship, and other important matters are protected.
- Incapacity Planning: At Alder Law, we can assist with incapacity planning, which could include powers of attorney, representation agreements, and healthcare directives.
- Probate Applications: The probate process is essential for validating a will and appointing an executor. For more detailed guidance on probate applications, including obtaining a Grant of Probate or Grant of Administration, visit our Probate Applications page.
- Estate Administration: If you’ve been named as an executor or are an administrator, we will guide you through your responsibilities, including asset management, debt settlement, and distributing the estate in accordance with the will or BC intestate laws if there is no will.
- Wills and Estate Disputes: Disputes over wills, beneficiary disagreements, or contested asset distributions can arise. Our team can assist with resolving estate disputes to protect your interests and ensure that your family’s wishes are carried out.
Wills, Estates, and Probate Services in BC
If you need assistance with a wills and estates matters, including estate planning, probate applications, or estate administration, Alder Law is here to provide you with the support and legal expertise you need.
Contact Our Team
We serve clients throughout Port Moody, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Surrey, Abbotsford, Langley, and across BC. Please call 604 936 9600, email [email protected] or complete the contact form.