Calgary & Strathmore Wills and Estates Lawyers

Getz Collins and Associates offers comprehensive, proactive estate planning and administration services that are individualized to each client’s unique circumstances. No matter the size or complexity of the estate, our professional estate lawyers ensure clients’ rights and wishes are properly represented and protected.

Our wills and estates team advises clients on any aspect of estate matters, including:

• Estate planning;
• Estate administration;
• Probate;
• Enduring powers of attorney and personal directives;
• Distribution issues (per capita or per stirpes);
• Joint accounts;
• Personal guarantees; and
• Digital assets.

Comprehensive Estate Planning

Forward-thinking, thorough estate planning is critical for individuals and families of all sizes in any tax bracket. A carefully considered, detailed estate plan ensures your assets are distributed in accordance with your wishes after your death. Advance planning can help avoid prolonged probate processes that erode estate assets and foster family discord.

Some of the many benefits associated with comprehensive estate planning include:

• Establishing personal directives for terminal health issues or end-of-life care;
• Designating heirs for your assets;
• Arranging powers of attorney in case of mental or physical incapacity;
• Naming potential guardians for dependent children;
• Creating a roadmap for estate tax planning;
• Arranging for the succession and transition of business ownership and operations or the inheritance of company shares;
• Ensuring the support of dependent or adult children and their education; and
• Setting aside assets for local causes or charities.

Navigating Estate Administration in Alberta

Administering an estate can be emotionally and legally complex, particularly in the aftermath of losing a loved one. A skilled estate lawyer’s guidance helps streamline the probate or administration proceedings and reduces the risk of costly estate litigation. Our estate lawyers can assist with any step of the process, including:

• Locating wills;
• Obtaining the Death Certificate and other official forms;
• Identifying assets and debts;
• Notifying beneficiaries;
• Filing for probate or administration with the court;
• Selling assets; and
• Paying debts and distributing estate assets to beneficiaries.

Getz Collins and Associates: Providing Trusted Estate Law Advice in Calgary & Strathmore

With its decades of combined estate law experience, the estates team at Getz Collins and Associates is proud to provide clients with empathetic, trustworthy advice in wills, estates, and trust matters. Our reputation as a keystone of the Alberta legal community is built on our unyielding commitment to client service and our ability to offer flexible service options and accommodating fee structures. We guide clients through complicated estate matters, protecting their interests at every step, and advocate on their behalf when disputes arise.

Getz Collins and Associates is based in Calgary and Strathmore and serves clients across Alberta, including Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks, Drumheller, Chestermere, Hussar, and all surrounding areas. We bring a community-minded approach to the modern, innovative business of law. To schedule a consultation on your estate matter, please contact us at 587-391-5600 or reach out online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wills and Estates in Calgary & Strathmore

Why do I need a will?

A will allows you to determine how your assets will be distributed after your death and who will administer your estate. Without a valid will, Alberta legislation determines how your estate is distributed, which may not reflect your wishes.

When should I update my will?

You should review your will regularly and update it after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, the death of a beneficiary, the acquisition of significant assets, or major changes to your financial circumstances.

What is probate in Alberta?

Probate is the court process that confirms the validity of a will and authorizes the personal representative to administer the estate. Financial institutions and other organizations often require a Grant of Probate before releasing estate assets.

What happens if someone dies without a will in Alberta?

If a person dies without a valid will, their estate is distributed according to Alberta’s intestacy laws. The distribution depends on the individual’s surviving spouse, adult interdependent partner, children, and other family members.

What is an enduring power of attorney?

An enduring power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes another person to make financial and property decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself.

What is a personal directive?

A personal directive allows you to appoint someone to make personal and healthcare decisions for you if you lose the capacity to make those decisions yourself.

What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will takes effect upon death and directs how your estate should be distributed. A trust can be created during your lifetime or through your will and may provide additional flexibility for managing and distributing assets.

How long does estate administration take in Alberta?

The time required to administer an estate depends on its complexity, the nature of the assets, whether probate is required, and whether disputes arise among beneficiaries. Some estates can be administered within months, while others may take significantly longer.

Can a will be challenged in Alberta?

In certain circumstances, a will may be challenged based on issues such as testamentary capacity, undue influence, improper execution, or family maintenance and support obligations. Each situation requires careful legal analysis.

Can you help with business succession planning?

Yes. Estate planning often includes planning for the transition of business ownership and management. Proper planning can help protect the value of a business and facilitate a smooth transition to future owners or family members.