Best Private Client Lawyers in Edmonton

Share your needs with us, get contacted by law firms.

Free. Takes 2 min.

Kahane Law Office
Edmonton, Canada

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
French
English
How Kahane Law Office Is A Different FirmWe aim to exceed expectations! As a Calgary law firm, we also have signing agents in Calgary, Okotoks, Canmore, Edmonton, Red Deer and Fort McMurray, allowing us to conduct purchases and sales throughout Alberta.High levels of customer satisfaction. We...
Prowse Chowne LLP
Edmonton, Canada

Founded in 1959
50 people in their team
French
English
About UsOver the last half-century, Prowse Chowne LLP has built and maintained a reputation for excellence and leadership in many practice areas.Our firm is not only a trusted name among all courts, tribunals and corporate institutions but also a known and trusted name within the community.At...

Founded in 2004
English
Sharek Logan & van Leenen LLP is a full-service law firm based in Edmonton, Alberta, offering comprehensive legal services across various practice areas, including family law, personal injury, estate planning, real estate, and litigation. The firm's team of experienced lawyers, paralegals, and...
Heritage Law Offices
Edmonton, Canada

Founded in 2000
English
Heritage Law Offices, located in South Edmonton, Alberta, offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. The firm's practice areas include real estate transactions, family law, wills and estate planning, estate administration, corporate and...
Ogilvie LLP
Edmonton, Canada

Founded in 1920
50 people in their team
French
English
Your future is our focus.Ogilvie was built in 1920 on a tradition of building relationships and working alongside our clients, and that is still our philosophy an entire century later. We’re proud to celebrate over 100 years together with our specialized teams of lawyers who will work beside you...
Edmonton, Canada

Founded in 2014
English
Archana Law, located in Edmonton, Alberta, specializes in real estate transactions and estate planning services. The firm assists clients with buying, selling, or refinancing residential and commercial properties, offering comprehensive legal support throughout the process. Additionally, Archana...
AS SEEN ON

About Private Client Law in Edmonton, Canada

Private Client law in Edmonton, Canada, primarily addresses legal matters related to individuals and families, focusing on managing and transferring personal wealth, estate planning, trusts, wills, incapacity planning, powers of attorney, and guardianships. The main goal of Private Client law is to protect personal assets, ensure wishes are fully respected, and minimize potential disputes among beneficiaries. Private Client lawyers assist clients in crafting personalized legal solutions while adhering to local, provincial, and federal regulations to provide peace of mind for individuals and their loved ones.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are numerous situations in which engaging a Private Client lawyer in Edmonton can be invaluable. Some of the most common reasons include:

  • Drafting or updating a will to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes
  • Establishing trusts for children, family members with disabilities, or charitable causes
  • Appointing an enduring power of attorney or personal directive in case of future incapacity
  • Applying for adult guardianship or trusteeship for individuals unable to make legal decisions
  • Handling estate administration, probate, and tax minimization after the death of a loved one
  • Protecting assets from potential legal disputes or creditor claims
  • Resolving contentious matters between beneficiaries during estate administration

Even individuals with modest estates can benefit from professional legal guidance to avoid costly mistakes and ensure legal requirements are fully met.

Local Laws Overview

Private Client law in Edmonton operates within the broader framework of Alberta legislation. Some of the most relevant laws include:

  • Wills and Succession Act (Alberta): Outlines requirements for valid wills, intestate succession (when there is no will), and court powers in estate matters.
  • Estate Administration Act: Governs the appointment of personal representatives and processes for winding up estates, including distributions and creditor claims.
  • Trusts Act: Details rules for establishing and managing trusts, including trustee responsibilities.
  • Adult Guardianship and Trusteeship Act: Provides procedures for court-ordered guardianship or trusteeship for adults who lack capacity.
  • Personal Directives Act: Allows adults to appoint someone to make personal and health-related decisions if they become unable to do so themselves.

Edmonton residents must also comply with local procedures for probate, court filings, and municipal property issues when they arise in estate planning or administration.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a "Private Client lawyer" and what services do they offer?

A Private Client lawyer focuses on personal legal matters like creating wills, trusts, estate and succession planning, tax planning, incapacity arrangements, and administering estates after a person’s death. Their services are tailored to protect individual wealth, family interests, and future generations.

Is it necessary to have a will in Edmonton?

While there is no legal requirement to have a will, it is highly recommended. Without a will, Alberta’s intestacy laws dictate how property is distributed, which may not align with your wishes or family situation.

How do I ensure my family is protected if I become incapacitated?

Preparing an enduring power of attorney for financial decisions and a personal directive for health and personal care allows you to appoint trusted individuals to act on your behalf if you lose capacity.

What is probate and when is it required?

Probate is a court process that validates a will and authorizes the personal representative to administer the estate. It is required when assets are solely in the deceased’s name or when financial institutions or other organizations request it.

How are trusts used in estate planning?

Trusts can provide ongoing management of assets, protect vulnerable beneficiaries, set out specific conditions for distributions, minimize taxes, and support charitable giving. A Private Client lawyer can help determine if a trust is appropriate for your circumstances.

Who should consider adult guardianship and trusteeship applications?

If a loved one is unable to make personal or financial decisions due to mental incapacity, family members, friends, or professionals can apply to become their legal guardian or trustee through the Alberta courts.

What happens if someone dies without a will in Edmonton?

Alberta’s Wills and Succession Act outlines how the estate will be distributed among surviving family members. A court-appointed administrator will manage the estate, which can sometimes result in undesired distributions or delays.

Can I change my will or power of attorney after signing it?

Yes, as long as you have legal capacity, you can amend or revoke these documents at any time. Changes must be done following Alberta’s legal requirements to be valid.

What should I do if I am named as an executor?

Executors are responsible for managing the deceased’s estate, which includes gathering assets, paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing property. Consulting a Private Client lawyer ensures you meet your legal obligations and avoid personal liability.

How are legal fees for Private Client services typically structured?

Fees vary depending on the complexity of your needs. Some services, like drafting a will, may have fixed rates, while ongoing matters like estate administration or litigation might be billed hourly or based on estate value. Always request a written estimate before proceeding.

Additional Resources

Here are some helpful organizations and resources related to Private Client matters in Edmonton:

  • Alberta Courts: Offers information and procedures on probate, estate administration, guardianship, and trusteeship
  • Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee: Supports vulnerable adults and can act when no suitable private individual is available
  • Law Society of Alberta: Referral services and regulation of lawyers practicing in Private Client matters
  • Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA): Publicly accessible guides on wills, estates, and planning for incapacity
  • Edmonton Community Legal Centre: Offers support for low-income individuals in certain areas of Private Client law

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with any aspect of Private Client law in Edmonton, it is best to:

  1. Identify your immediate legal needs, such as preparing a will, managing an estate, or seeking guardianship for a family member
  2. Organize all relevant documents, such as property records, financial statements, existing wills, or directives
  3. Research and contact a reputable Private Client lawyer who is experienced in matters affecting Edmonton and Alberta residents
  4. Request a consultation to discuss your situation, legal options, and potential costs
  5. Take proactive action to have your documents professionally drafted or reviewed to avoid future legal issues or disagreements

Contacting a Private Client lawyer early ensures your interests are protected and your wishes are respected both now and in the future.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Edmonton 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 Private Client, 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 Edmonton, 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.