Wills & Estates

Last Will and Testament

A Last Will and Testament is a document to distribute your assets following your death. 

To be valid, the person creating the Will, known as the “Testator” must have the mental capacity to create such a document, and follow certain legal formalities to legally execute the document.  The failure to follow these rules can result in the Will being declared to be invalid.  If this were to occur, your beneficiaries can be left with the added cost and stress of administering your estate according to the Intestate Succession Act (Alberta) or worse – fighting a lengthy and costly court battle to obtain what they feel is their just inheritance. 

Our counsel are able to provide you with the advice you need to create a proper Will, make decisions that will stand up to challenge and minimize wasting your estate through excessive tax and court fees resulting from a difficult administration process.  However, not all Wills are created equal.  Be wary of ads promoting a will kit completed on-line, through a simple mail in form, or a Will offered by your lawyer as a “throw in” to a real estate deal or for just being a good client.  The old adage usually holds true… you get what you pay for. 

If you are interested in creating a Will, please contact one of our solicitors.  We will be pleased to meet with you to educate you upon the many options and decisions that are made to create a complete Estate Plan.