Wills and  Estate Law

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Wills and Estate Lawyer

Your will provides your loved ones with valuable instructions for dispersing your assets and property, as well as following your final wishes. Having a legal will is essential for all adults, regardless of health, marital status, or owning property and appoints a legal executor to carry out estate-related tasks according to your instructions. In addition, it simplifies tasks for your estate during an emotionally difficult time.


Our professional will and estate services at Sinclair Law Office are respectful, thorough, and meet all Alberta law requirements for your estate planning. We serve our clients with Alberta's highest standard and reputation. Our dedicated lawyers provide you with the essential information you need and answer your questions, ensuring dependability and peace of mind when the time comes. 


Contact one of our professional will and estate attorneys at Sinclair Law Office to begin your estate plan or amend an existing will.

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Why You Need a Will

Whether you have begun a family or are experiencing a serious health condition, having a legal will helps to provide for your loved ones and protect your assets should you pass away. In addition, an untimely death without a will creates duress and strain on your family during an already emotionally painful time. 

  • I'm debating when to get a will.

    In some cases, people delay drafting a legal will until a drastic life change happens—for example, the birth of a child, a severe accident, or a decline in health. Most don't realize that a legal will is essential for all adults over the age of eighteen as they are now independent in the eyes of the government.


    In the event of an untimely death, a person's estate becomes more complicated to handle, and loved ones are left guessing as to their final wishes. As a result, this is incredibly stressful, and disagreements are more likely, putting undue hardship on family members who are already grieving.


    If you are still debating getting a legal will, consider that even if you have yet to acquire assets or are part of a long-term relationship, your will provides valuable instructions for your funeral, burial, and belongings. Essentially, estate planning is beneficial regardless of age or health condition, and it is wise to put one in place. Then, as years pass and your circumstances change, you can amend your will to include family and new assets.

  • What types of wills are available?

    There are several types of wills available; however, not all are considered valid in the Province of Alberta. Therefore, it is wise to get legal counsel to ensure the will you have in place is legally binding.


    Legal will types include:

    1. The Conventional (Formal) Will - is prepared by an attorney and requires two witnesses.
    2. The Holograph Will - is handwritten by the Testator’s own hand and is not witnessed. While valid in Alberta, some provinces do not recognize this type of will to be legal.
    3. The Joint (Mutual) Will - is a single will signed between two people, usually married couples, and drawn up by an attorney.

    Before deciding on which will is best for you, it is crucial to fully understand the legal ramifications of each type under the guidance of a will and estate lawyer. By doing so, you avoid costly mistakes or inadvertently creating an invalid document. 


    Our attorneys at Sinclair Law Office have the knowledge and experience to guide you in the right direction. We diligently provide you with easy-to-understand information to make the best decisions suited to your final wishes. The final result is a professional and efficient legal will with an effective estate plan your loved ones can easily follow.

  • How complicated are wills?

    In the same way people’s lives are complex, their wills are intricate documents detailing the specific distribution of assets and property.


    Here are a few circumstances that could make estate planning more involved:

    • Owning a business or corporation
    • Blended families
    • Second or third marriages
    • Difficult family relationships
    • Joint ownership of property or assets
    • Disabilities or declining health 

    In each scenario, some considerations become necessary to carefully document and plan within a legal will. For example, legal agreements and contracts need to be upheld in the event of your death and become part of your estate plan.


    If you need to include any of the above examples in your will, consult with a Sinclair will and estate lawyer today. We have the expertise to guide you and create a detailed and satisfactory estate plan.

  • How often should I amend my will?

    Your will is not a “one and done” document. Just as your life changes and evolves, so should your will. As a good rule of thumb, it is wise to update and amend your will and estate plan every five years.


    In addition, significant life changes such as marriage or other long-term relationships, acquisition of assets or property, the birth of children, divorce, or a diagnosis are excellent reasons to immediately amend your will.


    Your attorney at Sinclair Law Office can make knowledgeable recommendations to help you create a sound estate plan free of errors or omissions. 


    Before making any changes to your will, get legal counsel to know all the implications of your decisions and include stipulations that meet your goals and wishes.

  • How do I create beneficiaries?

    After your death and the full payment of debts according to your estate, the dispersal of remaining money, assets, and property goes to designated beneficiaries per the instructions in your estate plan. 


    According to your final will, beneficiaries are the people and loved ones you have specifically identified to receive the belongings mentioned above. Without a will, this process can take years to solve with more likelihood of family disagreements.


    Designation of your beneficiaries is your choice and under the unbiased direction of your lawyer. While your attorney will help you draft your will according to your wishes, they will inform you of how your choices impact your beneficiaries and help guide you to an optimal and simplified plan of action.


    Before making final decisions about the benefactors in your estate plan, speak to a qualified will and estate lawyer at Sinclair Law Office. We have the in-depth knowledge to help you make educated decisions for your beneficiaries.

Estate Management

Your estate involves your entire portfolio of possessions, including property, businesses, investments, assets, and other belongings. Managing your estate involves debt payments, tax planning, and the final dispersal of property according to your last legal will. Sinclair Law Office will and estate attorneys have the necessary experience to help you navigate this complex process.

  • What does an executor of a will do?

    An executor is a person you appoint to administer the instructions of your last will and testament upon your death. The executor’s duties include managing documents, payments, funeral and burial instructions, and other administrative requirements.


    If a person doesn’t appoint an executor or passes away without a legal will, the court will assign an executor to complete all relevant duties for their estate.


    Selecting an executor should be considered carefully. The person you are considering should be capable and knowledgeable of administering your final wishes. In addition, it is courteous to request permission before assigning them this duty in your legal will. 


    At the time of your death, your attorney at Sinclair Law Office can assist your executor and provide valuable direction should they have questions or need help. 

  • Why is estate planning a good idea?

    Estate planning is an essential element of your last will and testament. It is often more involved than one may initially think, as it pertains to taxes and debts as much as it is about dispersing your property. 


    At the time of your death, the totalling the value of your estate is necessary for taxation purposes, and how you handle the dispersal of property to beneficiaries can be the difference between owing more or less tax.


    Therefore, estate planning is an essential tool to help you and your loved ones benefit the most from your life’s work. This task may seem daunting for some, but the effort is well worth the time to disperse your estate with maximum effect.


    In addition, estate planning becomes the final decision based on your wishes, leaving less room for argument or division amongst your grieving loved ones.

  • How does estate planning affect my loved ones?

    Estate planning can come with the misconception that you need an “estate” for it to be worthwhile. Yet, nothing could be farther from the truth. 


    Every adult needs to consider estate planning as it pertains to their final wishes for their funeral, burial, distribution of assets, and even custody of children in particular.


    Without proper estate planning under the guidance of a will and estate attorney, you could be leaving your loved ones in a challenging position. When it relates to minor children, not only can you provide a designated guardian, but you can ensure to financially support them with a contingency plan.


    Another example is if you are the caretaker for an elderly or disabled family member. Again, estate planning guarantees their welfare without disruption. 


    Contact us today to begin your estate planning in Edmonton and the surrounding area.

  • How does estate planning prevent disagreements?

    If ever there is a time for family rifts and arguments, it is when they are emotionally vulnerable after the death of a loved one. The combination of grief, confusion, and responsibility weighs heavy at this delicate time. 


    Estate planning with a legal will assures that you have provided as much care and attention possible when you pass away, minimizing their anguish and alleviating the possibility of arguments— for the most part.


    While disagreements may not be avoidable, estate planning with a qualified and experienced will and estate attorney from Sinclair ensures that every detail is considered and accounted for in your plan. Essentially, estate planning is a final loving gesture for your family and friends.

  • What can I expect from an estate lawyer?

    Estate planning aims to thoroughly account for your portfolio and create a comprehensive plan of action. To do that, your lawyer will have some initial requirements.


    At your initial estate planning appointment, your attorney will request you bring a complete list of your assets, investments, insurance, property, and bank accounts, along with a copy of your existing will— if you have one.


    After compiling your list, your lawyer will assess the following:

    The value of your assets

    The sum of outstanding debts

    Government taxes (including strategies to minimize them)

    Contracts and agreements that could affect your estate

    Designation of beneficiaries

    Funeral and burial instructions

    Instructions for minor children

    Charitable contributions

    Any other final instructions according to your wishes


    Sinclair Law Office's attorneys provide the utmost respect and discretion while compiling your estate plan. As a result, you can rest easy knowing your loved ones are well cared for with a sound and legal will. You are in good hands with us.

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Planning for Your Estate with a Will

Thinking about one's morality can be uncomfortable, though end-of-life planning is an essential consideration for all adults. Having a professionally drafted will and estate plan by an experienced attorney makes the process less stressful. It gives you complete peace of mind over the protection of your loved ones and your assets.

  • Can I include funeral arrangements in my will?

    Part of estate planning includes your final wishes for your funeral and burial. Funeral arrangements are the priority after a person passes away, and with detailed instructions, everything is straightforward for those responsible for planning your celebration of life.


    In some cases, your family members are unaware or unclear about what your wishes would be once you pass away. Unfortunately, it can leave them in a state of uncertainty and panic, worsened by grief and added pressure.


    By seeking the advice from your attorney at Sinclair Law Office, you guarantee the consideration of every detail and a straightforward set of instructions is in your will. In addition, we will guide you on any legal requirements inclusions, should they be necessary

  • Can I add stipulations on the gifts in my will?

    Leaving precious belongings to loved ones and friends is often an emotionally charged and delicate process that takes much thought and care. In addition, it can cause some stress as you try to account for the beneficiary’s age, sense of responsibility, or interest level. In that way, careful consideration accompanies the desire to bestow a valuable gift.


    Included with the designation of inheritance to your beneficiaries, you can make stipulations as to how and when they receive your gift. In some cases, though, it may not be possible to make particular demands around your gift as they are outside legal constructs.


    It is wise to discuss your ideas with your will and estate lawyer. Our attorneys will provide expertise within Alberta law to help you achieve the optimal estate plan and designation of inheritance for all parties. 

  • How do I plan for my pets?

    While pets cannot own assets of any kind, you can designate ownership to a friend or family member and make provisions for your pet’s care. As a result, you can instruct how and when to use the money for your pet.


    In terms of livestock, they are an asset to be included within your will and estate plan. You may instruct them to be sold or, in the event of owning agricultural property, gift them along with the land. 


    The more information and instruction you provide in your final will, the better. Your attorney can help draft all the pertinent details for the care of your furry companion after your passing.

  • How long does it take to draft a will and estate plan?

    Carefully planning and drafting your legal will and estate plan takes time. Various factors can cause your will to take longer to write. While your attorney diligently works to coordinate your estate details, the following can expedite the process:


    • Organize and provide all necessary documents, agreements, contracts, tax returns, etc. 
    • List your questions, wishes, and instructions to discuss
    • List of beneficiaries, lawyers, accountants, etc. and contact information for all
    • Document assets, property, insurance, accounts, etc.
    • Provide follow-up information as soon as possible

    Every person's situation is unique, and the more complicated their estate is, the longer the process will take. However, drafting a legal will can take only a few weeks in straightforward cases.


    At Sinclair Law Office, our attorneys specialize in will and estate law, providing our clients the expertise they need for their end-of-life planning.

  • Can I prevent my beneficiaries from wasting their inheritance?

    It is an incredible gift to leave a substantial inheritance to a loved one or friend. It is an unexpected windfall for some, and for others, they have been planning on it for some time. You may wish to establish a plan that prevents them from squandering the funds in either case.


    As you work with your attorney to establish your estate plan, you can highlight your concerns around the use of your money. For example, you may require the beneficiary to be a certain age before receiving your gift, or perhaps the completion of university.


    You may even consider providing your inheritance in stages, preventing the beneficiary from receiving all the funds at once. Your lawyer can draft a detailed legal plan with expert guidance and care no matter how you wish to distribute your estate.


    Discuss your final wishes with one of our will and estate legal team. At Sinclair, we ensure your plans meet every expectation, giving you confidence in your decisions.

Our Services

Sinclair Law Office is proud to provide an extensive portfolio of legal services for our clients. In addition to our expert will and estate attorneys, we offer professional civil litigation, family law, personal injury, and real estate solutions to solve every legal matter with optimal results. Contact our office today. We are ready to serve you with respect and dignity regardless of your situation.

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Personal Injury Lawyer

Personal injury can occur when you least expect it. Whether in an unfortunate accident at work, during a sporting event, or a vehicular accident, your injuries can be painful and life-changing. In addition to your physical injuries, you may also suffer from emotional or mental duress, which warrants further consideration when filing insurance claims or starting a legal suit. 


At Sinclair Law Office, our personal injury lawyers can help you acquire compensation from your insurance agency, employer, or other liable body. We will gather relevant evidence, file documents and statements, and attend all legal proceedings on your behalf. 


If you have suffered an injury due to negligence, gross negligence, reckless conduct, or intentional misconduct, don't hesitate to call one of our accomplished personal injury attorneys at Sinclair Law Office. We will diligently assess your case, carry out a fact-finding investigation, and provide you with the professional guidance needed to ensure you are adequately protected when you need it most.

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