Estate Mediation in British Columbia
Vest Estate Law in British Columbia, understands that even with careful estate planning, disputes can still arise among family members. However, these disputes do not always have to end up in court. Estate mediation is often a viable alternative to litigation, providing a less confrontational and more affordable way to settle estate disputes for families.
The estate lawyers at Vest Estate Law are ready to listen to your estate issues and help guide you toward a mutually beneficial solution.
What is estate mediation in British Columbia?
Estate mediation is an alternative dispute resolution method used to settle issues with wills, trusts, and other matters regarding a deceased person’s estate. The process involves a formal meeting (or a series of meetings) where all parties involved in the estate dispute work to resolve their issues with the help of a professional and independent mediator.
Who takes part in estate mediation?
All parties with an interest in the dispute must be present during estate mediation, with or without their lawyers. This may include family members, beneficiaries, personal representatives, or attorneys under powers of attorney. The mediator, often a lawyer or another qualified professional, facilitates the process without making any decisions, as the disputing parties remain in control of the decision-making.
Common issues that estate mediation can help solve
Estate mediation can help resolve various issues, such as:
- Contesting or defending a will
- Establishing a will variation
- Contesting a testamentary trust
Saving family relationships with estate mediation
One of the most significant advantages of choosing estate mediation over litigation is that it can help preserve family relationships that might otherwise be damaged due to the bitterness resulting from court battles. Mediation allows for compromise and confidentiality, which can lead to a favourable outcome for all parties involved.
Types of Mediation in British Columbia
There are various types of mediation available from court mandated to voluntary mediation between all the parties. Regardless of the type of mediation recommended or mandated, the process will focus on the needs and interests of all disputants and their legal rights.
Vest Estate Law in British Columbia, can either represent you in mediation for your dispute. Contact us to schedule a one-on-one case evaluation before making a decision.
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.
