Estate management is essential to ensuring that your wishes, and the wishes of your loved ones, are upheld and protected.

Estates law covers many different issues that relate to three main stages: estate planning (drafting wills, powers of attorney and assisting with bequests and gifts), estate administration (managing an estate after the individual has passed), and estate litigation (dealing with disputes relating to an estate or a will).

Planning one’s estate can be an uncomfortable task to put your mind to, but it is incredibly important to do this thoroughly and thoughtfully to avoid disputes down the line, and keep your loved ones united in the event of your passing. By preparing carefully today, you can ensure that you leave your loved ones with peace of mind, not costly complications. It’s important for everyone, regardless of if you have property or children, to start thinking about planning for the future.

The estate planning process can feel overwhelming and understandably comes with many questions. When should I start planning my Estate? What is a Power of Attorney? What is the role of an Estate trustee? What happens if I die without a Will?

Additionally, life is more complicated today, with blended families, common-law relationships, business interests, investments, charitable giving, dependents with disabilities, recreational properties, and a whole new world of digital assets such as social media accounts and loyalty points. These are just some of the items that should be considered when preparing your estate planning.