Choosing an executor for your estate is a key step in the will-writing process. There are many factors to consider, and it’s not always as simple as choosing a family member or friend. The job of an executor can be…
ICBC recently announced significant changes coming to the standard auto insurance system in British Columbia. Starting in May 2021, all insured vehicles will be switched to the new Enhanced Care coverage system. The underlying idea is that BC residents will…
To challenge a will, interested parties can issue a notice of dispute to the courts to pause the estate administration. For the majority of will challenges, the notice of dispute must be issued before the will has been granted probate.…
Family caregivers often spend many hours and great effort caring for elderly relatives, sometimes without pay or compensation. Many caregivers sacrifice paid work and career opportunities to provide care. Unjust enrichment claims can offer legal remedies for those in this…
After a testator has finished writing their will, they may want to make a modification at a later date. There are specific procedures that will-writers must follow for any revision in a will to be legally valid. While it can…
Will writers can specify a survivorship period where the beneficiary must survive the will-writer beyond a specified period, or else their gift will be lapsed and given to someone else. Essentially, a survivorship period gives the will-writer more power over…
In BC, courts can rule a will unfair and vary it if it doesn't make adequate provision for the proper maintenance and support of the will-maker’s spouse or children. This ensures that individuals can't disinherit spouses and children without sufficient…
Beneficiaries, spouses and children have the right to receive a copy of a testator's will, regardless of the executor's opinion. When executors refuse to provide a copy of the will, beneficiaries can issue a subpoena. According to part 25 of…
For beneficiaries, it can be frustrating to wait for the executor to apply for a grant of probate. Unfortunately, some executors deliberately delay the administration process or completely fail to take action. Regardless of how slow the executor is, beneficiaries…
Wills in BC can be ruled invalid if a claimant can prove the testator was under undue influence. Undue influence is an influence causing the execution of a will which pretends to express the will-maker’s mind, but in reality, does…
