1. To protect your interests: There is a limitation period on the amount of time you have to bring your claim. An Estate Litigation lawyer can help you meet these deadlines to protect your claim.
2. To provide guidance: An Estate Litigation lawyer can review your situation objectively to determine whether or not you have a valid claim. Doing so could save you considerable time, expense, and the risk of applying to the Court without success within the time limitation.
3. To alleviate stress: The passing of a loved one is emotionally challenging. It can be demanding and exhausting to assess your claim and take steps to apply to the Court while grieving. An Estate Litigation lawyer can do this work for you so that you can focus on yourself and your family during this difficult time.
4. To ensure proper execution: There are a number of technical requirements to execute a valid Will. It is best to ensure these are met by consulting with a lawyer while you are alive, instead of allowing the Court to determine the validity after you are deceased.
5. To minimize taxes owed: Certain transactions will trigger taxes in estate planning such as property transfers. An Estate Planning lawyer can help you organize your assets so that the maximum amount of money will be available for your beneficiaries.
6. To protect your assets: The best time to hire a lawyer is before there is any possible litigation. Hiring an Estate Planning lawyer can ensure that your assets and Executor are not subject to future litigation.
7. To advise on jurisdictional issues: The Courts of British Columbia will only deal with the assets in Canada. If you own assets in multiple jurisdictions, it is important to consult with an Estate Planning lawyer as these may need to be placed in a second Will, or be disposed of otherwise to avoid tax implications.
8. If you are the Executor of a Will and you need help filing for probate: please contact one of our Wills & Estates lawyers to discuss our services.
