Estate Administration in Ottawa, Ontario
Estate Administration Services
Administering an estate plan which means handling the affairs of a person(s) who have passed away can be difficult, especially during the initial highly emotional time. Executors and administrators face complicated rules and paperwork not to mention legal obligations that can be complex and time consuming and ultimately personally impactful upon the executor. Beneficiaries, dealing with loss and grief and uncertainty frequently encounter daunting challenges. At AGB Lawyers, we offer compassionate estate administration services to provide support and advice during this critical time.
The Importance of an Estate Plan
A well-executed estate plan comprised 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 makes the job somewhat easier. 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.
Estate Planning and Administration Services
AGB Lawyers offers comprehensive estate planning and administration services tailored to both executors and beneficiaries. Our services are structured to facilitate efficient estate settlement that adheres to legal requirements, while honouring the individual’s wishes with sensitivity and diligence. Our comprehensive estate services include:
- Advising and representing executors of their rights and responsibilities to the estate;
- Assisting executors to determine if a formal application to court to obtain court approval to administer the estate is required in the circumstances (application for certificate of appointment);
- Advising executors as regards duties to relatives and as regards funeral and burial arrangements and the like;
- Advertising for creditors or searching for a will if required;
- Providing interpretation of the will or related documents for the executor including searching for a final will if same is required;
- Identifying, securing, and dealing with assets including assisting with asset holders such as banks and credit unions, land registry offices and the like;
- Identifying and paying valid debts and claims against the estate;
- Protecting estate executors and administrators from legal claims;
- Protecting beneficiaries from unnecessary delays and taxation;
- Assisting with accounts preparation and the calculation of appropriate executor compensation and the like;
- Assisting with locating and engaging other professionals such as accountants, real estate professionals and appraisers of all kinds as well as investment specialists to advise the executors and to facilitate the executor’s role and responsibility;
- Preparing as many or as few court forms and Ministry of Finance filing documents as are required; and
- Otherwise assisting executors a little or a lot, as they require; This means tailoring a solution for each and every client to suit their needs and budget.
Estate Documents
When arranging a consultation with our experienced estate administration lawyers, you may initially possess limited familiarity with the requisite documents or details pertaining to the deceased’s affairs. Ultimately, you will be required to provide various documents concerning the deceased’s debts, assets, and records, such as birth, marriage, and/or death certificates.
In the event that you do not have all of the necessary information, our team is here to provide thorough guidance on the process and advise on the essential components involved. We are dedicated to assisting you in planning your estate documents effectively, while offering informed advice on how best to proceed with the administration of the estate.
Administer Estates Quickly & Effectively
As a full-service firm, AGB Lawyers distinguishes itself from others by offering a thorough assessment of estates, encompassing critical aspects such as real estate planning, taxation implications, and family law considerations.
Additionally, we evaluate the potential impact of estate administration on beneficiaries’ business interests, proactively identifying and mitigating potential disputes. We prioritize transparency by providing comprehensive information and regular updates throughout the process, ensuring our clients maintain a clear understanding of the process and the costs involved with it.
Trust Ottawa’s Full-Service Estate Lawyers
ABG Lawyers upholds our commitment to offer comprehensive advice and protect the legal interests of the executor or administrator of the estate. With a dedicated estates administration lawyer and law clerk, AGB Lawyers is prepared to support you with your estate administration when you need it most. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. Initial consultations are offered at a greatly reduced rate.