Planning for the Future
It can be a difficult task to address what might happen to you and your family in the future. However, without a will in place, the assets that you work so hard to amass over your lifetime are distributed without your input, sometimes in ways that you may not have wished. A personalized last will and testament can also avoid misunderstandings amongst your family members and avoid unnecessary litigation, legal fees and taxes.
Proper estate planning has three primary objectives:
- The preservation and protection of your assets during your lifetime.
- The orderly and tax-effective transfer of your assets to the people and charities that you care about (your beneficiaries); and
- Securing your beneficiaries’ future through ongoing management of assets through trusts, after transfer to a beneficiary.
Calgary Wills and Estate Lawyers
Our wills and estates lawyers can assist you with implementing a personalized and comprehensive plan. Our services include:
- Personalized estate planning including asset protection and advice on tax consequences
- Business succession planning for corporate assets
- Preparation of Powers of Attorney
- Preparation of Personal Directives
- Guardianship and Trusteeship
- Estate Administration and obtaining Grants of Probate
Navigating Estate Disputes: 5 Challenges Women Face When Inheriting
For many women, losing a spouse brings not only emotional grief but also complex legal and financial challenges. Estate disputes are common, particularly in cases involving second marriages, blended families, and unclear estate plans. While Alberta law provides some protections, many women find themselves navigating conflicts over inheritance, family assets, and long-term financial security. Why […]
Christina Hassan, TEP, Appointed District Governor for Rotary District 5360
We are proud to announce that Christina Hassan, a valued member of our Estates Team, will be assuming the prestigious role of District Governor for Rotary District 5360, overseeing southern Alberta and southwestern Saskatchewan, starting July 1st, 2024. Rotary is a global network of over 1 million people volunteering their skills and resources to solve […]
You Need a Will? There Is a Way!
Estate planning is important to make sure your assets will be managed in the way you want after death. This article goes over the most important documents, including your will, power of attorney, and a personal directive.
Carbert Waite LLP Lawyers Recognized as Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in Canada for 2022
Matthew Bobawasky and Eleanor Carlson have been awarded with Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch.
What is the Cost of a Probate Lawyer?
In Alberta, probate is the court processes that prove the validity of a will and provides the power and control to the executor (also known as a personal representative) to act on the instructions left in the will. To apply for probate of an estate, the individual seeking to be the executor must submit an application to the court.
What Is Probate and Do I Need a Probate Lawyer?
Author: Eleanor Carlson I have been named executor of an estate in Alberta – What is probate and do I need a probate lawyer? In Alberta, probate is the court processes that prove the validity of a will and provides the power and control to the executor (also known as a Personal Representative) to act […]
Estate Planning Documents: 10 Reasons to Revisit
While everyone’s situation is different, we’ve rounded up a list of 10 life events that should trigger a re-visit to your estate planning documents.
Estate Planning During COVID-19
When it comes to estate planning, being armed with the right information is key. To help, here are answers to some common questions about estate planning, including some special considerations in light of COVID-19.
When Can I Use an Electronic Signature?
Author: Fiona Balaton As the situation with COVID-19 rapidly evolves, many people are being forced to create alternative solutions to conducting business. With many people working from home and conducting meetings by video, electronic signatures are being used more frequently. Electronic Transactions Act The Electronic Transactions Act (“ETA”) sets out how electronic signatures are recognised […]
No Contest Clause in Wills: MaWhinney v Scobie, 2019 ABCA 76
A no contest clause in a will is intended to discourage the beneficiaries under it from challenging the will. The clause does this by creating a condition that, typically, the beneficiary’s bequest under the will is forfeited and becomes part of the residue of the estate if they challenge the will and are unsuccessful.