Wills and Estates in Ottawa, ON
Estates, Wills, and Trusts
While it may be uncomfortable to contemplate, discussing death and the disposition of one’s assets and belongings after death through the establishment of a will or other testamentary documents through an estate plan is crucial. By formalizing a will and estate plan in advance, individuals can mitigate potential conflicts between loved ones, delays, over taxation and legal fee costs, and assist in alleviating any stress that is associated with this sombre period.
AGB Lawyers, located in Ottawa, Ontario, specializes in guiding clients through the creation and implementation of wills and estate plans. Our firm is dedicated to handling these sensitive matters with integrity and empathy, ensuring that your assets and valued possessions are protected and distributed according to the instructions noted in your will and estate plan during your lifetime, upon death, and afterwards.
Estate Plans
An estate plan comprises of legal documents that outline an individual’s intentions and directives regarding the administration of their personal affairs, encompassing assets, property, and childcare arrangements in the event of their death. An estate plan typically incorporates a last will and testament speaking to a person’s affairs at the time of their death. It includes provisions and directives designating through financial and personal care Power of Attorney documents, one or more persons named an “attorney” (in this case not a lawyer typically), and directives to govern decisions in the event of the individual’s incapacity, to ensure that their wishes are adhered to. Power of attorney documents can operate when a person is otherwise “normal” or during incapacity.
Last Will and Testament
A last will and testament is a legally binding document that delegates to one or more persons, a financial trustee or possibly lawyers all in the role of executor (estate trustee) the power to carry out the distribution and transfer of your assets and property to your beneficiaries, the treatment your final remains may receive, as well as guardianship roles and care of any minor children in the event of your passing. It is imperative to revisit your will and make adjustments when you experience changes in your life. Examples of significant changes where you should consider meeting with a lawyer to assist you in changing your estate plan documents are the following:
- Marriage;
- Divorce;
- A new living arrangement – Co-habitation;
- Death or incapacity or any other reason you want to make a change to some idividual named in your Will or Power of Attorney documents, an executor, an attorney, a beneficiary;
- Birth of a child;
- Purchase or sale of a significant asset or assets inside or outside Ontario; and Career change, purchase of a business or the like.
Living Wills
While many people do not realize the significance of a living will, it represents a critical document that articulates an individual’s medical directives in situations where they no longer have the capacity to communicate their preferences themselves. A living will specifies preferences for medical treatment and care in scenarios such as terminal illness, severe injury, or permanent unconsciousness, addressing decisions regarding life support, treatment options, and desired levels of care.
Inter Vivos Trusts
An Inter Vivos Trust is used in estate planning to arrange for the administration of assets for the benefit of designated beneficiaries. This trust is created during the grantor’s lifetime, where the grantor (i.e., the owner of the assets and trust) appoints a trustee who will be given legal responsibility for managing and transferring ownership of assets or property according to the terms written in the individual’s will and estate plan.
Ottawa’s Most Reputable Will, Trusts, and Estates Lawyers
At AGB Lawyers, our experienced legal team work tirelessly to prioritize your best interests and the fulfillment of your directives. Our lawyers are well-versed in the complexities of estate planning and administration, with extensive knowledge of the laws and regulations that must be adhered to in the planning of a will, power of attorney, trust, or estate.
We are committed to pursuing your objectives by drafting plans that reflect your wishes and preferences to provide peace of mind in knowing that your assets, property, and loved ones are taken care of.
Consult With a Will, Trusts, and Estates Lawyers Today
If you are seeking compassionate and personalized legal guidance in the area of wills, trusts, or estate planning, AGB Lawyers is here to guide you with expert legal assistance and advice. Contact our team of experienced professionals to schedule your complimentary consultation today with one of our competent law clerks today. Learn what is involved in personalized estate planning for you and your family and how little it can cost to get the full range of protection you and your family require and deserve.