Wills, Trusts and Estates in Victoria
Wills, Trusts and Estates Lawyers in Victoria
Whether you are finally writing the will you have meant to get to for years, or you have just lost a parent and a stack of paperwork has landed on you, the questions feel heavy. Most people in Victoria who come to us are not familiar with any of this, and they do not need to be. We explain it in plain language and take the next step off your plate.
A clear estate plan is really about the people you care about. It sets out who looks after your children, who steps in if illness or age means you can no longer manage your own affairs, and where your home and savings go. On Vancouver Island that often means a paid off home that has grown in value, a place at the lake or up Island, registered accounts, and sometimes a business or a blended family. We help you fit all of it into a will, powers of attorney, and a representation agreement that actually reflect your wishes.
If you are dealing with an estate after a death, we guide executors through probate and the day to day work of settling things, from notifying beneficiaries to clearing debts and distributing what is left. And when a will is being challenged, including a wills variation claim under the Wills, Estates and Succession Act, we explain where you stand and act on your behalf. Your first conversation with us is free, whether you visit our Victoria meeting office or speak with us by phone.
How we help in Victoria
Wills
We draft clear, valid wills under BC's Wills, Estates and Succession Act so your wishes are written down properly and hold up when they matter most.
Powers of attorney and representation agreements
We set up the documents that let someone you trust manage your finances and make health care decisions if you can no longer do so yourself.
Trusts and estate planning
We use trusts and tailored planning for children, family members with disabilities, blended families, and an Island home that has grown in value, so things stay simple later.
Probate and estate administration
We guide executors through the Supreme Court probate process and the work of settling an estate, from the application to paying debts and distributing assets.
Wills variation and estate disputes
If you have been left out or treated unfairly in a will, or you are an executor facing a claim, we explain your options under WESA and act for you.
Incapacity planning
We help you plan ahead for illness or aging so your family is not left applying to court during an already difficult time.
Common questions
What makes a will valid in British Columbia?
In general, a will must be in writing, signed by you, and signed by two witnesses who are present when you sign. Other rules can affect whether a will stands up, which is why it helps to have it prepared properly. We make sure yours meets the requirements in the Wills, Estates and Succession Act.
I have been named executor of an estate in Victoria. What do I have to do?
As executor you carry out the will. That can mean applying to the Supreme Court of British Columbia for probate, notifying beneficiaries and creditors, paying debts and taxes, and then distributing what is left. It is a real job with legal duties attached. We can walk you through each step or handle the heavy lifting for you.
I think I was unfairly left out of a parent's or spouse's will. Can I do anything?
Possibly. In BC, a spouse or child who was not adequately provided for can ask the court to vary a will under WESA. There are strict time limits, and a claim generally must be started within 180 days of the grant of probate, so it is worth speaking with us sooner rather than later so you do not lose the chance to act.
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Talk to us about Wills, Trusts & Estates in Victoria
No pressure and no obligation. Just a clear conversation about where you stand and what comes next.