Estate Administration in Vancouver

Estate Administration Lawyers in Vancouver, British Columbia

In Vancouver, people who write a will usually name a personal representative (also known as an executor or executrix) to carry out the task of estate administration. This considerable responsibility is often discussed with the individual beforehand so they know what to expect. However, some personal representatives may not be prepared, capable, or able to commit the necessary time to estate administration, which can lead to delays for beneficiaries or other problems.

Fortunately, you don’t have to handle this alone. If you have been named as a personal representative in Vancouver and need assistance, an experienced estate administration lawyer from Vest Estate Lawyers can help you with:

• Interpreting the will
• Grant of probate application
• Completing the necessary administration paperwork
• Paying debts and taxes
• Identifying and distributing assets to beneficiaries
• Providing care for the deceased’s dependents (if necessary)
• Estate Litigation

What is the Wills, Estates and Succession Act of British Columbia?

British Columbia’s Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA) governs the estate administration tasks performed after a person dies in the province. The Act grants legal powers to a personal representative (PR) to administer the estate according to the laws outlined in the Act. Duties must be performed honestly and in accordance with the deceased’s wishes.

Estate Administration Checklist for Vancouver Residents

The basic duties of a personal representative in Vancouver include:

1. Locate the last will
2. Register the death
3. Arrange the funeral
4. Apply for a grant of probate
5. List assets, debts, and beneficiaries
6. Secure the deceased’s assets
7. Write a public notice to creditors
8. Notify beneficiaries
9. Request release of claims
10. Locate, gather, and sell assets
11. Pay debts and expenses
12. Distribute assets to beneficiaries
13. Prepare a financial statement
14. Close the estate account

What if there is no will or Personal Representative?

If a person passes away without a will (intestate), the Supreme Court of British Columbia will need to intervene to appoint an administrator. Under British Columbia law, the assumption is that a deceased person would have intended for their property to go to family members after they die. If you are a family member, you can apply for a Grant of Administration, and one of our experienced estate administration lawyers can assist with this process.

Estate Administration in Vancouver

The lawyers at Vest Estate Lawyers can help you administer a loved one’s estate efficiently and effectively so that your actions don’t create legal issues. Contact us through the web form to book a meet and greet with one of our estate lawyers.