Best Trusts Lawyers in Canada

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English
Filice Law Professional Corporation is a boutique firm serving Ancaster, Hamilton and the Golden Horseshoe, with deep expertise across Real Estate, Wills and Estates, Family Law and Corporate and Commercial matters. The firm delivers practical, cost effective legal solutions to individuals and...

3 people in their team
English
North Road Law specializes in Real Estate Law, Business and Corporate matters in Burnaby, British Columbia. The firm represents home buyers and sellers, borrowers and lenders in residential and commercial property transactions and assists entrepreneurs with corporate transactions, registrations,...
CBM Lawyers
Langley, Canada

English
CBM Lawyers is a Canadian law firm serving clients in the Fraser Valley and across Western Canada from offices in Langley, Aldergrove and Maple Ridge. The firm is a trusted partner for individuals and businesses, delivering practical outcomes-oriented legal solutions and maintaining a client...
Albert & Co. Law LLP
Abbotsford, Canada

13 people in their team
English
Albert & Co. Law LLP is a Fraser Valley law firm in Abbotsford that combines precise legal expertise with a client focused approach. The firm concentrates on Estates including planning, administration, and litigation, and provides a broad civil practice to address disputes, business matters and...
Vancouver, Canada

Founded in 2012
21 people in their team
English
Onyx Law Group is a Vancouver, British Columbia based boutique law firm that concentrates on family law and estate litigation. The firm is known for integrity, competence and a passion for justice, and provides strategic advocacy for clients navigating high conflict separations, custody disputes...
Westcoast Wills & Estates
North Vancouver, Canada

English
Westcoast Wills & Estates focuses on helping individuals and families plan for the future and navigate life changes with care. The firm handles wills, trusts, powers of attorney, representation agreements, and estate administration, offering clear guidance from initial planning through probate and...
Toronto, Canada

Founded in 1932
English
Ramsay Law Office Professional Corporation has been a cornerstone of the Temiskaming legal community for over 90 years, offering comprehensive legal services in both English and French. The firm's areas of practice include Real Estate transactions, Corporate and Commercial law, Wills and Powers of...

Founded in 2023
7 people in their team
English
Ford Haymour & Associates LLP is a Calgary based law firm co founded by Jason Ford and Yazan Haymour. The firm provides a broad practice that encompasses Real Estate, Wills & Estates, Family Law and Litigation & Personal Injury, enabling clients to access transactional and dispute resolution...
Sault Ste. Marie, Canada

Founded in 1969
English
PROVENZANO LAW / advocates and advisors is a Sault Ste. Marie based law firm known for combining practical advocacy with strategic guidance. For more than five decades, the firm has served Northern Ontario with integrity and commitment, founded by Frank Provenzano in September 1969. The firm...

Founded in 2016
English
JCA Law Office Professional Corporation, located in Toronto, Ontario, offers comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas, including immigration law, family law, real estate transactions, estate planning, criminal justice, and notarial services. The firm is led by founder and CEO...
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About Trusts Law in Canada

Trust law in Canada is a crucial aspect of property and estate planning, allowing individuals to manage and protect their assets effectively. A trust is a legal relationship where one party, known as the trustee, holds property for the benefit of another party, the beneficiary. The person who creates the trust is called the settlor. Trusts can be established for various reasons, such as estate planning, asset management, tax reduction, or ensuring that specific terms and conditions are met for the benefit of certain individuals or organizations.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are numerous situations where you might need legal assistance with trusts in Canada:

  • Creating a trust to ensure your estate is managed according to your wishes.
  • Understanding the tax implications associated with a trust.
  • Disputes between trustees and beneficiaries about the management of the trust.
  • Modifying or terminating an existing trust.
  • Ensuring compliance with Canadian trust laws and regulations.
  • Protecting assets in the event of divorce or business risks.

Local Laws Overview

Trusts in Canada are generally governed by provincial or territorial law, which means the specific regulations can vary across regions. Key aspects of Canadian trust law include:

  • Creation of a Trust: This involves a settlor transferring property to a trustee, with clear intention and purpose.
  • Trustee Duties: Trustees have fiduciary responsibilities, including duty to act in the best interest of beneficiaries, duty of loyalty, and duty to manage the trust prudently.
  • Types of Trusts: There are several, including express trusts, resulting trusts, and constructive trusts, each with unique legal implications.
  • Taxation: Trusts are separate legal entities for tax purposes, and the taxation of trusts can be complex, involving considerations such as income distribution and capital gains.
  • Registration: Some provinces require that trusts be registered or follow specific formalities.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of a trust?

A trust helps manage and protect assets, ensuring they are used in a manner consistent with the settlor's wishes, often for beneficiaries who may not be able to manage them alone.

Can a trust be altered or revoked?

It depends on the type of trust. Revocable trusts can be changed, while irrevocable trusts are generally fixed and require court intervention to modify or terminate.

Who can be a trustee in Canada?

Any competent person aged 18 or older can be a trustee in Canada. Trust companies and financial institutions can also act as trustees.

What are the tax implications of creating a trust?

Trusts are subject to income tax, and the rules can be complex. Professional tax advice is recommended to understand specific implications.

How is a trust funded?

A trust is funded by transferring property or assets from the settlor to the trust, which then becomes managed by the trustee.

What happens if a trustee breaches their duties?

If a trustee breaches their fiduciary duties, they can be removed, and may be held liable for any losses incurred due to their actions.

Are trusts public or private?

Most trusts are private arrangements and do not require public disclosure.

How long can a trust last in Canada?

Trusts usually last a specific term or until the purpose has been fulfilled. Some may be structured to last indefinitely.

Can a minor be a beneficiary?

Yes, minors can be beneficiaries of a trust, with the trust often used to manage assets until they reach adulthood.

How do trusts help in estate planning?

Trusts can provide control over how assets are distributed after death, potentially save on estate taxes, and protect beneficiaries' interests.

Additional Resources

Here are some helpful resources for more information on trusts in Canada:

  • Government of Canada's resources on estate planning.
  • Provincial or Territorial law societies providing legal resources and directories.
  • The Canadian Bar Association for comprehensive legal insights.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with trusts, consider taking the following steps:

  • Consult with a lawyer specializing in trust law to understand your specific needs and options.
  • Prepare any relevant documents and information about your assets and intentions.
  • Book an initial consultation to discuss your situation and receive personalized advice.
  • Consider additional advice from financial advisors, especially about tax implications.

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 Trusts, 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.

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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.

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