Wills & Estates

Securing your legacy

At Skands Law, we understand the importance of securing your legacy and protecting the futures of those you love. Our team provides comprehensive wills and estates services designed to meet your unique needs and goals. From drafting clear, legally binding wills to navigating the complexities of estate administration, we offer the guidance and support you need to ensure your assets are managed according to your wishes. Let us help you plan for the future with confidence, so you can focus on what truly matters—leaving a lasting legacy for those you care about most.

Our Services

Litigation

Our team is well-versed in navigating complex estate litigation matters, ensuring your rights and interests are protected. Whether you are facing challenges with will validity, executor duties, or claims against an estate, we provide experienced legal representation to resolve disputes efficiently and fairly, minimizing stress during an already difficult time.

Estate Planning

Our comprehensive estate planning services help you safeguard your assets and provide clear instructions for your loved ones. We assist with:

  • Drafting Wills

  • Creating Trusts

  • Drafting Powers of Attorney

  • Drafting Representation Agreements

Grants

We assist executors and beneficiaries in obtaining the necessary grants to administer estates. Whether it’s a grant of probate or a grant of administration, our team provides clear guidance through every step of the application process, ensuring the proper handling and distribution of assets according to the law.

Disinheritance

For those looking to create a will, we handle sensitive disinheritance cases with care and precision, ensuring that your wishes and intentions are clearly articulated. We have provided counsel to individuals wishing to limit the number of beneficiaries under a will/ disinherit.

We have also challenged wills where a family member has been left out/ disinherited.

We know that complex family dynamics are often at play when you are planning for your will or you are dealing with estate issues; we have the experience to assist you in navigating the complexities of your legal issues.

Estate Disputes

Estate disputes can arise from misunderstandings, conflicts, or ambiguities. Our experienced team is here to help resolve these disputes through negotiation, mediation, or litigation when necessary.

Frequently asked questions

Still have questions? We are here to help. Explore answers to common inquiries below or get in touch to discover how Skands Law can support you.

  • While not required, a lawyer ensures your will meets legal standards and reflects your wishes accurately, reducing the risk of disputes. At Skands Law, we have seasoned legal counsel on wills and estates to help you plan for the uncertain future.

  • If you pass away intestate (without a will), your estate is distributed according to BC's intestacy laws, which may not align with your preferences.

  • It’s best to prepare your will as soon as you have assets or dependents. Major life events like marriage, having children, or changes in your financial situation are ideal times to review or update your will.

  • Yes, it's wise to create or update your will after marriage. This ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and reflects any new responsibilities or changes in your family situation.

  • Absolutely. A will is essential in a blended family to clarify how assets will be divided among your spouse and children. There can be complications with step-children and step-grandchildren. Unlike biological and adopted children, step-children have no inheritance rights unless they are specially named in the will. As Skands Law has expertise in both family law and will and estates, we are well-suited to assist blended families.

  • The executor is the person you appoint to manage your estate after you pass away. They handle everything from paying off debts and taxes to distributing assets to your beneficiaries as outlined in your will. They ensure your wishes are followed and your estate is settled properly.

  • In BC, you must be at least 16 years old to make a legally valid will.

  • Yes, for a will to be valid, it needs to be documented in writing—whether that’s handwritten or typed. It also must be signed by you and witnessed by at least two people who aren't beneficiaries. This ensures your wishes are clear and legally enforceable. Mistakes can be made with respect to witnessing and signing wills; a lawyer will help avoid these types of mistakes.

  • No, Canada does not have a death tax. However, there may be taxes on the estate’s assets, such as capital gains tax, which should be considered in estate planning.

  • Probate costs vary depending on the estate's complexity and value. Typical costs include court fees, legal fees, and administrative expenses. Connect with us to receive an estimate based on your specific situation and legal support requirements.

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