Estate Litigation

A last will and testament is intended to reflect a will-maker’s genuine, final wishes. In BC, individuals have broad testamentary freedom, meaning they can decide how their assets are distributed and who will benefit from…

It’s fair to assume that terms finalized in a valid will are final and that whatever the will-maker’s wishes were adhered to. However, this is not always the case in BC. Under the Wills, Estates,…

When someone passes away, their estate is distributed according to the instructions they left behind in their will. In BC, the Wills, Estates, and Succession Act (WESA) provides clear rules for creating a valid will…

Estate litigation disputes often arise when someone who believes they are entitled to an inheritance is left out of a will. These disputes are especially common in cases involving estrangement, where ties between the will-maker…

It’s generally best practice to write a will with the help of a lawyer to ensure the document is legally valid and properly accounts for the will-maker’s final wishes. However, people sometimes choose to write…

When someone passes away, their estate is generally distributed according to the instructions set out in their will. Probate is the legal process that confirms the will is valid and gives the executor the authority…

Married couples often coordinate their estate planning, which usually involves establishing a will to ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes. Mirror wills are one option for couples. This type of will essentially…

When someone passes away, questions often arise concerning how their assets are distributed. This depends not only on the deceased’s will, but also on how certain assets were owned. The right of survivorship is a…

Some couples live together in a committed relationship without ever getting legally married. In British Columbia, common-law partners might assume that their relationship automatically grants them the same inheritance rights as a legally married spouse.…

Contesting a will in BC is often a complex, emotional process. With both emotions and stakes high, disagreements can arise over inheritance, placing additional strain on families already coping with loss. BC law establishes strict…