Estate Litigation Lawyers in British Columbia
At stressful and upsetting times, such as the death of a loved one, family disputes are common. While most estate disputes are settled without court intervention, estate litigation may be required to resolve serious issues. This is especially the case when for example, a will was prepared without legal assistance, or misconduct by the personal representative of the deceased is suspected. If your dispute cannot be resolved by alternative resolution methods, the estate litigation experts at Vest Estate Law are ready to assist you in your time of need.
Common Estate Disputes
While careful estate planning helps avoid problems, disputes can still arise between family members and other parties after a person dies. Estate litigation is most commonly required for disputes against personal representatives and attorneys, probate and will disputes, dependent support claims, and disputes over jointly held assets.
Quantum Meruit in Estate Litigation
During an estate dispute, you may hear the term “Quantum meruit,” which means “as much as he has deserved” in Latin. A “quantum meruit” claim may be made by a plaintiff who believes that he or she has not been adequately compensated by the deceased’s estate for work done. This type of claim requires substantial grounds and proof.
Estate Litigation Challenges
Estate litigation can be especially contentious because of the unique factors at play, such as emotional family conflicts and substantial or sentimental estate assets. These emotional complexities require compassion and an understanding of the family dynamics from the lawyers who represent you, in addition to a firm understanding of the relevant laws.
Who We Represent in Estate Litigation
Our estate litigation lawyers at Vest Estate Law can represent three different parties in legal cases: the estate, the beneficiaries, and third parties. We may need to defend the estate against several different types of claims, represent beneficiaries in various matters, and represent third parties questioning the validity of a will or making a quantum meruit claim.
Estate Litigation Lawyers in British Columbia
Estate litigation is a big step to take. It can be very contentious and it is important to understand the dynamics involved as well as the relevant laws. Before making any decisions, speak to an estate planning lawyer at Vest Estate Law in Vancouver for a one-on-one case evaluation.
Our Vancouver intake staff are standing by to help you. Call (604) 256-7152 [toll free 1 (877) 415-1484] or contact us online to schedule an appointment.
We also have a dedicated intake form to help you get the ball rolling. Our intake team will review your specific case and advise you on the next steps to take, as well as what to expect moving forward.
Our Vancouver office is open 8:30 a.m.—4:30 p.m., Mon—Fri.
Myron Plett
WILLS and ESTATES LAWYER
Myron is a seasoned litigator with nearly twenty years of experience and a broad range of skills that has led to significant successes in the Provincial Court of British Columbia, the Supreme Court of British Columbia. He has also taken his clients to victory before tribunals such as the Residential Tenancy Branch and the BC Human Rights Tribunal.
