As more of life moves online, our estate plans need to keep up. From banking apps and cryptocurrency, to social media and photo storage, digital assets have become just as important as physical ones, yet many Canadians overlook them when planning their estate. Failing to account for digital assets can leave loved ones locked out…
Preparing for your first will or estate planning meeting doesn’t have to be daunting. The good news is that a little preparation goes a long way in making the discussion easier, and more productive. By gathering the right documents and information ahead of time, you enable your estate lawyer to provide the best advice, and…
In a digital world, your online presence doesn’t disappear when you do. From Instagram photos to TikTok videos, X (formerly Twitter) posts to YouTube channels , your social media accounts form part of your digital legacy. But what happens to these platforms when you pass away? And who controls them? In British Columbia, your digital…
When someone passes away in British Columbia, their estate may need to go through probate , a legal process that confirms the validity of the will and grants the executor authority to act on behalf of the estate. One of the most common questions families ask is: how much does probate actually cost? Here’s what…
Gifting property to your children while you’re alive can be a meaningful gesture and, in some cases, a strategic estate planning move. In British Columbia, this decision carries both benefits and risks. While it may help simplify your estate or reduce probate fees, it can also trigger tax consequences or create complications if not handled…
Estate planning isn’t just about deciding who gets what, it’s about preserving your wealth, minimizing taxes, and ensuring your wishes are honoured. There are several tax obligations that can affect your estate before assets are passed on to your loved ones. Understanding these obligations, and how to reduce them, is key to protecting your legacy….
An Alter Ego Trust is a special type of trust available to Canadians aged 65 or older. It allows you to transfer assets into a trust while still retaining full control and benefit of them during your lifetime. Alter Ego Trusts are often used for estate planning because they offer privacy and probate advantages….
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a crucial legal document that allows someone you trust to manage your legal and financial affairs if you become unable to do so yourself. In British Columbia, setting up a POA is an important step in your estate and incapacity planning. Here’s what you need to know about Powers…
Life can be unpredictable, so it’s vital to protect the people you care for. Estate planning is the process of arranging what will happen to your assets after you die, or if you become incapacitated. A well-crafted estate plan will preserve your wealth and put your mind at ease. Don’t wait – take control of…
Not sure how to go about choosing a wills and estates lawyer? Start with these simple guidelines. Speak to a Lawyer Now Ask for Referrals When you need a lawyer, start by asking around. Find out who family and friends have used for their will and estate planning and what their experience has been…