Wills and Estates Lawyer in Ottawa

 

Life is unpredictable. It is always better to ensure that your loved ones and dependents are protected when you are gone. At Julie I. Guindon, our will lawyer in Ottawa can assist you with all your property-related issues.

You can consider us for your wills and estate planning. You can make changes later as and when the situation demands. Our experienced lawyers understand your diverse yet specific needs regarding wills and estates. At Julie I Guindon, we ensure to assist you throughout the litigation process. 

Feel free to contact us with all your questions related to wills and estates. We will try to get back to you at the earliest!

 

Wills Preparation and Estate Planning

 

Our wills and estate lawyer can help you make an informed decision. Such as suggesting what you should include in your wills and estate planning. You can opt for double, reciprocal, or mutual wills based on your preferences and condition. 

Double wills are used as estate planning techniques and help minimize your probate fees to be paid on death by your estate. Reciprocal or mirror will refer to situations or cases when terms of the will are decided based on a contract. In such situations, couples make wills with their respective lawyers, mirroring each other’s wills. 

Mutual wills refer to when the couple mutually prepares and decides the terms of the will. It helps in offering clarity in estate planning. Get in touch with us for wills preparations and estate planning in Ottawa. 

 

Importance of Wills

 

We understand various challenges that you or your family might have to face with the sudden demise of your loved one. But, having a will in place plays a very important role because:

• You can choose your own beneficiaries of your will. 
• You can choose your own executor, i.e., to administer your estate.
• You can reduce the possibility of your assets being frozen without a will.
• Your loved ones do not have to pay probate fees with a will in place. 
• You can ensure that your will mentions the respective guardian for your children.
• You can ensure that your children are taken care of after your demise.
• It helps with a hassle-free arrangement of specific tax and estate planning procedures.

 

Importance of Hiring a Professional Will Lawyer

 

When it comes to creating a will, it is crucial to seek the assistance of a professional will lawyer. Here's why hiring a professional will lawyer is important:

 

• Legal Expertise: A professional will lawyer possesses in-depth knowledge of estate planning laws and regulations. They can navigate through complex legal requirements, ensuring that your will is valid and legally enforceable.

• Personalized Guidance: A will lawyer can provide personalized guidance based on your specific circumstances. They take the time to understand your wishes and goals, offering insights and recommendations to protect your assets and fulfill your intentions.

• Avoiding Errors and Challenges: DIY wills or poorly drafted wills can lead to errors, ambiguities, or contradictions, which may result in disputes or complications after your passing. A professional will lawyer ensures that your will is clear, comprehensive, and legally sound, minimizing the chances of challenges or misinterpretations.

• Estate Planning Strategies: A skilled will lawyer can assist you in developing effective estate planning strategies. They can provide advice on minimizing estate taxes, protecting assets, establishing trusts, and ensuring the smooth transfer of wealth to your beneficiaries.

• Updates and Amendments: Life circumstances and laws may change over time, requiring updates or amendments to your will. A professional will lawyer can help you review and modify your will when necessary, ensuring that it reflects your current wishes and remains legally valid.

 

Julie I. Guindon is the trust will lawyer in Ottawa. Whether you need to get your will prepared now or need help in estate planning, our experienced lawyers can help. Contact us today to book a consultation!

​

What Do Wills Include?

​

Wills are essential legal documents that outline your instructions and wishes regarding the distribution of your assets and the management of your estate. Here are some common elements included in wills:

 

• Appointment of Executor: A will specifies the person or institution responsible for administering your estate and carrying out your wishes, known as the executor or personal representative.

• Beneficiaries: Your will identifies the individuals or organizations that will receive your assets, such as family members, friends, or charitable organizations. You can specify the distribution of specific assets or provide general instructions for asset division.

• Guardianship: If you have minor children, your will can designate a guardian who will assume responsibility for their care in the event of your passing.

• Assets and Debts: Your will typically includes a comprehensive list of your assets, including properties, bank accounts, investments, and personal belongings. It may also address any outstanding debts or liabilities.

• Special Instructions: Wills can include special instructions regarding specific bequests, such as sentimental items, charitable donations, or the establishment of trusts for the long-term management of assets.

• Residual Clause: A residual clause addresses how any remaining assets should be distributed after specific bequests and expenses are accounted for.

By consulting with a professional will lawyer like Julie I. Guindon, you can ensure that your will covers all the necessary components and reflects your wishes accurately.

 

FAQ | Wills and Estate Lawyers in Ottawa

​

What Are the Most Commonly Distributed Assets in a Will?

Some of the most commonly distributed assets in a will are:

​

• If your spouse jointly owns your house, then they are entitled to it. 
• The contents of the household are also passed on to your spouse. 
• Your insurance policies or other retirement saving plans, if you have any. 
• The bank accounts are operated by you and your spouse jointly. 
• Any unique gifts, belonging, tools, or jewellery, if there are any. 

 

How Many Executors Are Required for My Will?

 

Generally, your will only requires one executor, i.e. in the majority of cases is your spouse. You can also have a secondary executor who can assist you if your primary executor cannot perform their responsibilities. 

How Does Divorce Affect My Will?

 

Divorce doesn’t affect your will, as it won’t revoke your will. The only part that might get revoked is where your spouse can no longer be an executor of your will. They cannot be the trustees or guardians of your children. You can also choose to revoke your last or existing will and draft a new will in case of divorce.

 

Why Choose Us?

 

At Julie I. Guindon, we understand the various challenges you might face during legal problems. You can count on our years of experience, ensuring fair and suitable representation in the Ottawa courts. Our lawyers are dedicated to offering high-quality services so that the entire process is hassle-free for you. 

In addition to wills and estates, our lawyers deal in family law proceedings, divorce cases, child support, and various other legal issues in Ottawa. At Julie I. Guindon, we strive to offer appropriate legal solutions, as you are our priority. 

We have an exceptional team of wills and estate lawyers along with others to assist you. Book an appointment with us today.