Best Estate Planning Lawyers in Canada

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Pervez & Pervez Law
Cambridge, Canada

Founded in 2022
2 people in their team
Pervez & Pervez Law, based in Cambridge, Ontario, offers comprehensive legal services tailored to individuals, families, and businesses across Canada and the United States. The firm specializes in business law, providing support in corporate structuring, contracts, commercial real estate,...
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Grande Prairie, Canada

English
Hayes Fry Law, based in Canada, is a distinguished legal practice known for its multifaceted expertise across various domains of law. The firm prides itself on its deep expertise in family law, where their seasoned divorce lawyers and family law attorneys provide compassionate and informed guidance...
White Stag Law
100 Mile House, Canada

English
White Stag Law, located in 100 Mile House, British Columbia, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including wills and estates, real estate conveyancing, business incorporations, commercial transactions, and financing and refinancing. The firm is committed to delivering legal assistance...
Cold Lake, Canada

Founded in 2005
English
Grey Wowk Spencer LLP is a distinguished Canadian law firm recognized for its comprehensive expertise across various legal disciplines. Specializing in areas such as criminal justice, divorce, family law, and elder law, the firm has established a robust reputation for providing strategic legal...

Founded in 2009
English
Kay Law Professional Corporation, based in Kitchener, Ontario, offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including business law, real estate, wills and estates, dispute resolution, family law, and personal injury. The firm is led by Managing Director James D. Clarke, who brings extensive...

Founded in 2020
English
Corvus Law Corporation, formerly known as Higson Law, is a distinguished Canadian law firm with offices in Victoria and Dawson Creek, British Columbia. The firm offers comprehensive legal services in real estate, wills and estates, personal injury, and corporate/commercial law. Their team of...

Founded in 1939
English
Matlow, Miller, Cummins, Thrasher LLP, established in 1939, is the oldest independent law firm in Cambridge, Ontario, providing comprehensive legal services throughout Southwestern Ontario. The firm's team of experienced professionals offers expertise across various practice areas, including...

English
Humber Bay Law, recognized as one of the premier legal providers in Etobicoke, Toronto, offers a comprehensive suite of services tailored to individuals and businesses alike. The firm is distinguished by its broad expertise, with seasoned lawyers handling complex matters in business law, civil...
Ancaster, Canada

Founded in 2014
English
Quinn Estate Law, located in Ancaster, Ontario, specializes exclusively in estate law, offering comprehensive services in estate planning, estate administration, planning for disabled individuals, and guardianship applications. The firm is led by Eileen Quinn, LL.B. (Hons.), TEP, a full member of...
Cambridge, Canada

Founded in 1999
English
Lennox & Penney is a boutique law firm located in Cambridge, Ontario, with over 20 years of dedicated service to the community. The firm specializes in business and corporate law, real estate transactions, and wills and estates, offering comprehensive legal solutions tailored to meet the unique...
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About Estate Planning Law in Canada

Estate planning in Canada involves creating a plan for how your assets will be distributed upon your passing. This can include creating a will, establishing trusts, naming beneficiaries, and minimizing tax liabilities. It is important to have a well-thought-out estate plan to ensure your wishes are followed and your loved ones are taken care of.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

While it is possible to create a basic estate plan on your own, there are many situations where seeking the advice of a lawyer is beneficial. Some common reasons why you may need a lawyer for estate planning include having a complex family situation, owning a business, having assets in multiple jurisdictions, or wanting to minimize tax obligations.

Local Laws Overview

In Canada, each province and territory has its own laws governing estate planning. However, there are some common principles that apply across the country. These include the importance of having a valid will, understanding the implications of joint ownership, and planning for incapacity through powers of attorney and healthcare directives.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need a will in Canada?

Yes, having a valid will is essential in Canada to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.

2. What is probate and do I need to avoid it?

Probate is the process of proving the validity of a will. While it may involve some fees and delays, avoiding probate is not always necessary depending on your estate's complexity.

3. How can I reduce estate taxes in Canada?

There are various strategies for minimizing estate taxes in Canada, such as gifting during your lifetime, establishing trusts, and utilizing tax exemptions and credits.

4. What is a power of attorney and why is it important?

A power of attorney is a legal document that appoints someone to make financial or medical decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. It is essential for ensuring your affairs are managed as per your wishes.

5. Can I update my estate plan if my circumstances change?

Yes, it is important to review and update your estate plan regularly, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of children, or changes in financial status.

6. Should I use a trust in my estate plan?

Using a trust can be beneficial for achieving various estate planning goals, such as providing for minors, protecting assets from creditors, and reducing probate fees.

7. What happens if I die without a will in Canada?

If you die without a will in Canada, your assets will be distributed according to the intestacy laws of your province or territory, which may not align with your wishes.

8. How can I ensure my digital assets are included in my estate plan?

You can include provisions for your digital assets in your will or use a separate document to specify how they should be managed after your passing.

9. What are the duties of an executor in Canada?

An executor is responsible for managing the deceased's estate, including distributing assets, settling debts, and fulfilling any specific instructions outlined in the will.

10. How can I best protect my estate from legal challenges?

To minimize the risk of legal challenges to your estate plan, it is important to clearly communicate your intentions, seek legal advice, and ensure your documents are properly drafted and executed.

Additional Resources

For more information on estate planning in Canada, consider contacting the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP Canada), the Canadian Bar Association, or consulting with a local estate planning lawyer.

Next Steps

If you are in need of legal assistance with your estate plan in Canada, it is advisable to schedule a consultation with an experienced estate planning lawyer who can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Canada through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Estate Planning, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Canada - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.