Dying without a Will (Intestate): Who Acts as Executor?
Dying intestate the courts will determine how the estate is to be distributed and who will be responsible for administrating the estate (acting as executor).
Estate Planning: Notary, or Lawyer?
When first setting out to write a will, many people have no idea where to start. It’s very common for a first-time will writer to underestimate the complexity of their estate, especially if they hope to maximize the value of…
Estate Planning for a Family Business
Estate planning is a vital component of financial planning that involves making arrangements for the distribution of assets after death. This is crucial for individuals of all net worths, as it provides peace of mind that loved ones will be…
Common Law Marriage in BC Law
People living in marriage-like relationships without a formal wedding should know their rights under the Family Law Act. This is commonly referred to being a 'common law spouse' or a 'common law marriage'. In this blog, we'll discuss property division,…
BC Speculation Tax- The Basics
The government introduced the BC Speculation and Vacancy tax in 2018 to incentivize homeowners to occupy their vacant properties. The tax also aims to generate revenue for housing initiatives, ultimately creating a more affordable housing market. This article will guide…
Personal Injury Claims: Expert Witnesses
In a personal injury civil claim, you must show your professional, personal, and physical losses. Consulting with experts is crucial, and retaining an expert witness can strengthen your claim. What is an Expert Witness? An expert witness is a professional…
How are Company Shares Handled in BC Estate Law?
Upon an individual's death, estate administration commences, and the executor undertakes the task of distributing assets to beneficiaries as per the deceased's will. When the deceased has an interest in a private corporation, handling shares differs from managing simpler assets…
Codicils: Making a Small Revision to Your Existing Will
It’s not uncommon for a will-writer to want to make a modification to an outdated will that they’ve written years ago. Often times, will-writers only want to make small changes to their will – maybe changing a single sentence in…
Important Limitation Dates in Estate Litigation
Various different legal remedies ensure that estates distribute as the testator intended and prevent invalid disinheritance. However, claimants must adhere to certain deadlines to initiate an estate litigation case. Typically, estate litigation cases have a limitation period of either two…
Stepchildren Challenging a Will: Estoppel if Your Biological Parent Gifts Their Estate to Your Stepparent
In BC, courts can rule a will unfair and have it revised - or varied - if it does not make ‘adequate provision for the proper maintenance and support’ of the will-maker’s spouse or children. The Courts have the authority…