250.475.0775

The Trusted Wills and Estates Lawyer in Victoria

Welcome to The Genesis Law Group, your trusted partner for all matters related to wills and estates in Victoria. Our dedicated team of experienced wills and estates lawyers is here to guide you through the essential planning process for transferring your property and assets in Victoria. We understand the importance of securing your legacy and ensuring your loved ones are cared for according to your wishes. Contact us today to prepare your will at the earliest.

Wills on Wheels

The Genesis Law Group is proud to offer a new and innovative service right to your door. Wills on Wheels brings our lawyer to your location for a consultation, gathers your instructions, and returns with your professionally drafted will for signing and witnessing.

Our Expertise in Wills and Estates

At The Genesis Law Group, we offer a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to your specific needs in the realm of wills and estates. Our experienced lawyers provide professional guidance and assistance in the following areas:

Drafting Wills

A well-crafted will is the cornerstone of a secure estate plan. Our skilled lawyers will work closely with you to draft a will that accurately reflects your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets, the appointment of guardians for minor children, and other important considerations. We'll ensure that your will is legally sound and up-to-date.

Estate Planning

Effective estate planning involves more than just a will. Our team will help you develop a comprehensive estate plan that may include trusts, advance directives, and strategies to minimize estate taxes. We'll take the time to understand your unique financial situation and family dynamics to create a plan that provides for your loved ones and preserves your assets.

Estate Administration

Navigating the legal requirements of estate administration can be complex and emotionally challenging. We offer compassionate and efficient support to executors and administrators, guiding them through the process of settling the estate, distributing assets, and ensuring compliance with all legal obligations.

Estate Litigation

In cases where disputes or challenges arise regarding wills or estate matters, The Genesis Law Group has a proven track record of representing clients in estate litigation. Our skilled litigators are prepared to protect your interests and resolve disputes to the best possible outcome.

What You Need to Know about Wills

A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and the management of your affairs after your passing. Understanding the key aspects of wills, with guidance from our wills and estates lawyer, is crucial as you begin your estate planning journey. Here are some essential points to consider:

Executor Selection: Your will should name an executor responsible for carrying out your wishes as stated in the will. It's essential to choose someone you trust, as this person will handle tasks such as distributing assets, paying debts, and ensuring your final wishes are fulfilled.

Beneficiary Designation: Clearly specify who will inherit your assets in your will. Be specific about how you want your property, finances, and personal possessions to be distributed among your loved ones. It's essential to review and update these designations periodically to reflect changes in your life.

Guardianship for Minors: If you have minor children, your will should designate a guardian who will care for them in the event of your passing. This decision is paramount, as it ensures that your children will be looked after by someone you trust and who shares your values.

Funeral and Burial Instructions: Some individuals include their preferences for their funeral or memorial service in their wills. While this isn't legally binding, it can provide guidance to your loved ones during a difficult time.

WHEN TO CONSULT A WILLS AND ESTATES LAWYER 

While some documents can be started with templates or kits, legal advice remains essential to ensure they meet formal validity requirements under British Columbia law. Clients should consider consulting a lawyer when:

  • Updating a will after a marriage, divorce, or major life change.

  • Appointing a guardian for dependents or a power of attorney.

  • Inheriting or being named as executor in an estate.

  • Planning for blended families, dependents with disabilities, or complex assets.

Engaging legal professionals early can help ensure your intentions are clearly reflected and upheld under the law.

STRUCTURING AN EFFECTIVE ESTATE PLAN

Creating a comprehensive estate plan involves more than just drafting a will. At The Genesis Law Group, our legal services focus on structuring all relevant documents and instructions that may be required over time, including:

  • Trust arrangements: Used to provide financial support to dependents with specific needs or to manage the distribution of assets over time. Trusts can also help reduce probate delays and preserve privacy.

  • End-of-life directives: These outline your wishes regarding health care, capacity decisions, and personal support in situations where you are unable to make decisions independently.

  • Asset designation planning: Ensures that non-probate assets—such as jointly owned accounts, insurance policies, or registered investments—are correctly aligned with your intended beneficiaries and integrated into the overall plan.

Each estate plan is developed to reflect the client’s personal, financial, and family circumstances, with attention to the relevant tax, property, and succession law implications. Contact our wills and estates lawyer in Victoria to discuss your legal needs.

Steps to Prepare a Will

Creating a legally valid will involves several crucial steps. It's essential to follow these steps meticulously to ensure that your will accurately reflects your wishes and stands up to legal scrutiny:

Consult with an Attorney: Begin by seeking the expertise of an experienced wills and estates lawyer, like the professionals at The Genesis Law Group. They will guide you through the entire process, ensuring you will comply with local laws and regulations.

Gather Your Assets: Make a comprehensive list of your assets, including bank accounts, real estate, investments, personal property, and any outstanding debts. This inventory will serve as a valuable resource during the will creation process.

Identify Beneficiaries: Clearly identify who will inherit your assets. Be specific about what each beneficiary will receive and under what conditions. Discuss your intentions with your loved ones to prevent any surprises or disputes.

Choose an Executor: Select a trustworthy executor who will fulfill your wishes. Discuss this role with the chosen individual to ensure they are willing and capable of fulfilling their responsibilities.

Draft and Review Your Will: Work closely with your wills and estates lawyer to draft your will. Ensure that your will accurately reflects your intentions and complies with all legal requirements. Review it carefully to avoid any errors or ambiguities.

Sign and Witness Your Will: Your will must be signed in the presence of witnesses who are not beneficiaries, to ensure the will is legally valid. The number of witnesses required varies by jurisdiction, so consult your attorney for guidance on this matter.

Keep Your Will Safe: Store your will in a secure location, such as a safe deposit box or with your attorney. Ensure your executor and loved ones know where to find it when needed.

By understanding what goes into a will and following these steps with the assistance of a qualified attorney, you can ensure that your wishes are upheld and your legacy is protected for future generations. Ready to draft your will? Contact our team to get started with a wills and estates lawyer in Victoria.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Below are some of our most common questions:

  • While it is not legally required, having a lawyer helps ensure the will is valid, properly executed, and consistent with current provincial laws.

  • Your estate will be distributed according to the rules in the Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA). This may not reflect your wishes, which is why having a will is important.

  • Yes. You may revise or revoke a will at any time, provided you meet the legal requirements. It’s recommended to consult a lawyer before making changes.

  • Not always. Whether probate is needed depends on the type of assets and how they are owned. Legal advice can clarify if your estate requires probate.

  • It is a legal document in British Columbia that allows you to appoint someone to make personal care or health-related decisions on your behalf if you become incapable.

  • You should review your will after major life changes such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or a significant change in assets. Regular reviews every few years are also advisable.

  • In British Columbia, a notary public may assist with basic estate planning, but only a lawyer can provide legal advice or represent you in contested estate matters or complex planning.

  • Yes, but the British Columbia law allows certain family members (like spouses or children) to challenge a will if they believe they were not adequately provided for. Legal advice is recommended in such cases.

  • An executor should be someone responsible, trustworthy, and ideally familiar with your financial situation. You may also appoint a professional or institution if no suitable personal choice exists.

Refer to our articles for detailed information about our legal services in Victoria.

Contact The Genesis Law Group

To discuss your wills and estates needs with our experienced lawyers in Victoria, please contact our wills and estates lawyer at The Genesis Law Group today. We are committed to providing top-quality legal services to help you plan for the future and secure your legacy.

Plan Your Estate with Confidence

Work with our trusted wills and estates lawyer in Victoria to prepare a clear, legally sound estate plan tailored to your needs.

Schedule a Consultation →