Wills & Estates

Are you looking for a wills and estates lawyer in Ontario? At Russell Alexander Collaborative Family Lawyers, we specialize in providing comprehensive legal services to ensure your loved ones are taken care of and your assets are protected for the future. Our experienced team of lawyers understands the complexities of wills and estates law and is here to guide you through every step of the process.

Why Choose Us?

  • Expertise: With years of experience in wills and estates law, our lawyers possess in-depth knowledge of the Canadian legal system. We stay up to date with the latest laws and regulations, ensuring that you receive accurate and reliable advice tailored to your specific needs.
  • Personalized Approach: We understand that each client has unique circumstances and concerns. Our team approaches each client with a holistic approach designed to accommodate each individual circumstance. By taking the time to listen and understand your goals and wishes, we craft personalized solutions to protect your assets and safeguard your family’s future.
  • Comprehensive Services: Our firm specializes in a range of services covering will drafting, estate planning, and estate administration. We offer a full suite of customized, legal services to deliver results with varying degrees of complexity.
  • Client-Centric Focus: Our clients are at the heart of everything we do. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional client service and building long-term relationships based on trust and transparency. We aim to make the legal process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you and your family.

Wills and Estates Services

Will Drafting and Estate Planning

We assist you in creating a legally binding will that accurately reflects your wishes and ensures a smooth transfer of your assets upon your passing. Our familiarity with the Succession Law Reform Act (SLRA), ensures that all procedural requirements will be complied with to make the process seamless for all individuals involved. In addition, our team can also help with estate planning strategies to minimize tax implications and protect your wealth.

Probate and Estate Administration

We will guide you through the legal requirements to assist you with matters surrounding estate administration, asset valuation, debt settlement, and distribution. For example, we can assist in obtaining the certificate of appointment from the Superior Court of Justice. The certificate signifies the executor’s authority to disburse the contents of the will. The process can be complex and time-consuming depending on the complexity of the estate or whether others contest elements of the will. Our experienced lawyers are prepared to support you through this process.

Estate Litigation

In cases where disputes arise over wills, estates, or trusts, our skilled litigators will advocate for your rights and interests. We have extensive experience in estate litigation, representing clients in contested wills, validity claims, beneficiary disputes, and other estate-related conflicts.

Wills and Powers of Attorney

Planning for the future is crucial. In Ontario, there are two important legal documents you can create to protect yourself and your loved ones: a will and a power of attorney.

What is a Will?

A will is a legal document that dictates the distribution of your personal assets after you pass away to your selected beneficiaries. Personal assets include your money, your house, your car, and other belongings. Creating a will helps make sure that your wishes are followed, and your loved ones are taken care of.

How To Create a Will in Ontario

  1. List your assets. Make a list of your personal belongings, such as your savings and personal property. If you are unsure about whether you can leave an item to someone, your lawyer may be able to assist you.
  2. Choose your beneficiaries. Beneficiaries are people or organizations you want to give your personal items to in the event of death. It could be your family members, friends, or a charity you care about.
  3. Appoint an executor. An executor is a person responsible for administering your estate. They must abide by the instructions given in the will and disburse your personal items to the beneficiaries.
  4. Talk to a lawyer. A lawyer has comprehensive knowledge of the law and relevant legislation, to ensure your will complies with statutory requirements. Determining the value of assets and assigning the items to beneficiaries can be a complex process. However, your lawyer can answer any questions you may have. Once you communicate your wishes to your lawyer, they will incorporate your requests into a legally binding document.
  5. Sign the will. Once the will is prepared and executed to your liking, you will sign the will (as the testator), in front of 2 witnesses.

What is a Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney is an important document that grants someone the authority to make decisions on behalf of another person, in the event they become legally incapacitated. Incapacity can arise through illness or injury, that impairs your cognitive ability to make decisions for yourself.

Creating a will and power of attorney in Ontario is a way to protect yourself and your loved ones. By planning ahead, you can have peace of mind knowing that your wishes will be followed and that someone you trust will make decisions for you if needed.

How To Create a Power of Attorney in Ontario

  1. Choose your attorney. An attorney is the person you choose to make decisions for you, in the event you are unable to make them.
  2. Talk to a lawyer. A lawyer can help you draft a power of attorney, by highlighting important considerations and offering insight into your deliberation process. They will write down your wishes and make sure everything is legal binding and clear.
  3. Sign the power of attorney. You will sign the power of attorney in front of witnesses, just like with the will.

Contact Us

When it comes to wills and estates law in Ontario, Russell Alexander Collaborative Family Lawyers is your trusted partner. To schedule a consultation or learn more about how we can assist you, please contact us. We look forward to serving you and helping you secure your legacy.

Please note that the information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. It is always recommended to consult with a qualified lawyer to address your specific legal concerns.