Typically, before naming someone as executor in a will, the will-writer (or testator) asks the person if they’re comfortable with being their executor. Often, without fully understanding the legal duties and obligations associated with being an executor, the person accepts.…
When someone dies in British Columbia, loved ones can be left wondering how they will receive their inheritances, and how to begin the process of administering the estate. When a will is left behind, the courts must first have proof…
In BC, courts can rule a will unfair and have it revised - or varied - if it doesn't make ‘adequate provision for the proper maintenance and support’ of the will-maker’s spouse or children. This law ensures that spouses and…
Executors of an estate can have extensive and time-consuming responsibilities to fulfill and, in most cases, are compensated for their efforts through executor’s fees. Sometimes, the will-writer specifies how the executor should be compensated in their will, however, some wills…
It’s not uncommon for will writers to choose to donate part of their inheritance to charities or local initiatives. Sadly, it's also not uncommon for people to write their wills and never update them to reflect changes in their life…
It is common for people to choose to keep all of their assets until they pass away, naming everything to different loved ones, friends and charities in their will. In doing this, will-writers are certain that they will have possession…
A common inheritance scam in Canada involves an individual contacting a person, often by phone or email, claiming to be the executor for the estate of a 'long lost relative' who the person has never met. They tell the person…
As part of proactive estate planning, it is often a good idea to appoint a power of attorney (POA). A POA is someone authorized to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf. The primary purpose of having a POA…
Depending on the size of the estate and the number of transactions that need to be made during the estate administration process, it can be very complex for the estate executor to manage all of the debts owed by the…
Many people don't start thinking about their estate plan until they are thinking of retirement, or see will writing as a 'set and forget it' exercise. Will writing can be a long, tiring and emotionally stressful process and as a…
