Correcting a Will in Court

On , In Estate Administration

In recent months lawyers throughout BC have been learning new wills and estates laws, which came into force on March 31, 2014. The Trial Lawyers Association of BC recently held a program to address these significant changes and the uncertainty arising from them. What do you need to know about correcting a will in court?…


Wills, Estates and Succession Act – Overhaul of Estate Law in B.C.

On , In Estate Administration

The Wills, Estates and Succession Act (“WESA”) came into force on March 31, 2014.  WESA replaces and consolidates (with substantial changes) four statutes that governed the passing of property on death and the administration of the estates of deceased persons. The act provides greater certainty for individuals who put their last wishes into writing and simplifies the…


The Battling Disinherited

On , In Estate Administration

Suffering death in the family is always a difficult affair, which is only made more difficult when family members start dragging each other through court. A death can open old wounds and in grief people sometimes insist on extreme courses of action. Unfortunately, there is also a growing sense of entitlement in today’s society. Children […]


The right to die: which deathbed decisions do you need to consider?

On , In Estate Administration

As you may be aware, the Supreme Court of British Columbia recently made a ruling on Physician Assisted Suicide in the case of Carter v. Canada (Attorney General), 2012 BCSC 886. The Court found that the law against assisting a person to commit suicide was unconstitutional, as it violated the right of equality under the […]


How do you disinherit someone in BC?

On , In Estate Administration

I have written before about British Columbia’s Wills Variation Act and the requirement in our province to make “adequate provision” in our wills for our spouse and children. This time, I will talk about the justification that the Court needs in order to respect your wishes to disinherit your spouse or children. British Columbia recognizes […]


What exactly does an “executor” do?

On , In Estate Administration

When someone close to us passes away, it is easy to become overwhelmed by the loss and by all the details of managing their affairs. Some issues that demand attention right away include funeral arrangements, contacting family and locating the Will. Locating the Will is important as it may contain funeral wishes and it appoints […]