As a notary public, I get a lot of calls about real estate, estate planning and transferring property between family members. If you’re considering adding or removing an owner from title, or transferring (an interest in) property between family members, here’s what you need to know. What is a family transfer? A “family transfer” of […]
Family Transfers in Real Estate Read More »
There are many compelling reasons to have a Will, but what actually happens when a person dies without leaving a Will? In British Columbia, the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA) provides the intestacy rules. Administration Pursuant to section 130 of WESA, when a person dies without a Will, the court may grant administration of the
Death Without a Will: A Look at BC’s Intestacy Legislation Read More »
A Will is a critically important document, but only 50% of British Columbians have their own signed, current Will*, which, of course, begs the question: Why? Here are some of the most common myths and misconceptions that we’ve heard: Myth #1: Only people with significant assets need a Will. A Will is a legal document
Ever heard the phrase, “cheap advice is the most expensive kind”? This rarely rings truer than when examined through the context of legal services – particularly estate planning and Wills. There are many important reasons to have a Will but people who have never sought assistance from a legal professional may sometimes wonder: “Can I make
A Notary’s Role in Estate & Personal Planning Read More »
1) Exercise choice and make your wishes known If you die without a Will, the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA) governs how your estate will be divided. Don’t let legislation dictate your legacy. Ensure that those who are important to you are provided for in you Will. 2) Grant authority Appoint an executor (and
You know that a Will is important, but you keep putting it off, seeing it sit unchecked on your “To-Do” list month after month. You’re not alone. One of the top things we hear from our clients is that they’ve been meaning to attend to their Will, but have felt overwhelmed and unsure where to
The Dreaded Estate Plan – How to Start (and Finish) Your Will in 5 Easy Steps Read More »
Estate and personal planning is the process of setting up legal instructions for your incapacity, health care directive and death… before any of these circumstances happen to you. Planning is achieved through three key legal documents: Will, Power of Attorney and Representation Agreement. Last Will & Testament (Will) Your estate is comprised of the assets that
Estate and Personal Planning: An Overview Read More »
When you purchase a property alone, it’s clear what your responsibilities are because you own 100% of the property. But what happens if you purchase a property with someone else? How can you define and characterize the nature of your ownership of the property? Deliberate and strategic registration of legal ownership of property is a
Joints Tenants vs. Tenants in Common: Ownership Considerations for 2+ Property Owners Read More »
