When a loved one passes, family members are often left to handle their affairs. From matters concerning personal possessions to burial requests, it can feel overwhelming. To prevent your loved ones from being burdened by your affairs, speak to a wills and estates lawyer. That way, when the time does come, everything will already be sorted and the time that might have been spent worrying about paperwork can be spent grieving instead. Having your affairs in order may be the last gift you give your family.
In addition, GS Brar Law provides legal support to estate trustees who are managing, controlling, and administering an estate. Please see below for a complete list of our wills and estates services and do not hesitate to Contact Us for a free consultation.
- Wills
- Power of Attorney
- Estate Planning
- Estate Administration
- Probate
What to Expect
During your first visit with a wills lawyer and an estates lawyer, it’s best to be prepared to answer questions. They will need to get to know you, your situation and your needs. It is important to remain truthful and transparent while answering any questions they have.
Some questions may focus on past estate planning, family dynamics, beneficiaries, healthcare wishes, and what is to be done with your personal belongings and real estate.
Divulging information about your life and relationships with close friends and family members can be emotional, given the context. Keep in mind that it is in everyone’s best interests to provide the information your wills and estates lawyer requests.
Earlier Plans
Remember to mention if you have previously drawn up a last will and testament. This is important because, depending on how long ago it was made, you may wish to make changes. Whether adding or removing someone from your will or adding an item as property, a long list of edits may need to be made.
Estate Trustee/Executor
It is important to decide who your estate trustee will be. This will be the person who becomes responsible for administering your estate and carrying out the wishes that you have expressed in your last will.
Beneficiaries
As mentioned above, it is important to name your beneficiaries. Your beneficiaries may be limited to your spouse and/or children, or you may have other family members, friends, acquaintances or charities you wish to name. Whatever the case may be, officially naming your beneficiaries will prevent confusion.
For example, if there is anyone you’d like to omit from your will, this is the time to make it known. It may be an uncomfortable conversation, but these are your final wishes, so you must do what is right for you and your loved ones.
Property
What do you wish to happen with any homes or land you own if you own property? Make it clear who will inherit it. This is another big responsibility to pass on to someone, so think it through carefully.
Children
Do you have children? If so, it is crucial to name who you want to be their guardian(s) in the event of your passing.
How to Prepare
Being as prepared as possible when meeting with your wills and estates lawyer is important. This is not only true when answering their questions, but your paperwork should also be organized and complete. Documents include:
- Identification: Bring two government issued IDs such as your driver’s licence, passport, or permanent resident card.
- Paperwork for any real estate: This includes your registered property deed or “transfer” which confirms that you are the property owner and how you hold title. If you do not have this, your wills and estates lawyer can obtain it for you.
- Contact information: If another party was previously involved with your will or estate, like a prior attorney, bring their details and any relevant paperwork with you.
- Questions and concerns: There is a lot of information to cover, so it is only natural for some things to slip through the cracks. A list of questions will help you stay organized and reassured that nothing was left unsaid or unasked.
GS Brar Law in Brampton Can Help
At GS Brar Law, we can help you prepare your will and estate documents. We will ensure your wishes are followed and reduce the responsibilities left over for your loved ones.
For more information about how GS Brar Law’s experienced wills and estates lawyer can help you, call 1-905-291-3297 or complete our online contact form.