Wills and Estates Lawyers North Vancouver

Wills & Estates

North Vancouver and Area Wills and Estates Planning Lawyers

Ratcliff has been assisting families in British Columbia deal efficiently with estates for the last 60 years. Our broad range of experience enables our wills and estates lawyers to provide you with practical, cost-effective advice that can shield you from unnecessary liability and paperwork.

Our experienced wills lawyers have in-depth knowledge of wills and estate planning, Powers of Attorney, decision-making authorities (such as Representation Agreements and Committeeships), estate administration and probate, and estate litigation.

Our Wills and Estates Services Include:

Estate Planning & Will Creation

Developing a detailed overview of your estate planning objectives
Crafting tailored advice on how best to accomplish your wishes
Recommending appropriate strategies to protect wealth and beneficiaries
Guidance on appointing guardians for minor children and creating trusts for those under 19
Establishing Powers of Attorney and Representation Agreements
Advice on a variety of asset protection issues, such as avoiding Wills variation claims
Helping to minimize delays and expenses while optimizing tax implications

Estate Administration & Probate

Advising Executors, Administrators, and Trustees in discharging their duties
Helping surviving family members of a person who has died intestate without making a Will
Obtaining grants of probate (if there is a Will) or Letters of Administration (if there is no Will)
Assisting with accounting obligations, including the passing of estate or trust accounts
Dealing with complicated estate assets, including business assets and out of province assets
Reporting to beneficiaries as required and liaising with other advisers, such as accountants
Assisting the resolution of disputes involving trusts, wills and estate

Our Wills and Estates Lawyers

PETER BONNY*
Partner
Lead, Wills & Estates Practice Group

LESLEY MIDZAIN
Associate

KEVIN D. LEE*
Managing Partner

Uniquely Positioned to Assist First Nations Clients

Ratcliff’s Wills and Estates lawyers are well-equipped to support First Nations and Indigenous Peoples with their estate planning needs. With over 50 years’ experience collaborating with Indigenous communities, Treaty Nations, and bands under the Indian Act, our team ensures that your aspirations, concerns, and community dynamics are woven into the fabric of your estate plan.

Our lawyers also provide ongoing education to Indigenous governments and First Nations administrations on estate planning matters.

Estate Planning for Disabled Beneficiaries

Ratcliff’s Wills and Estates lawyers are experienced in designing estate plans tailored specifically for disabled beneficiaries. With a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by individuals with disabilities and their families, our team is experienced in crafting comprehensive and compassionate estate plans that ensure the long-term financial security and well-being of your loved ones.

*Law Corporation

Ready when you are

Our lawyers offer a broad range of experience and expertise, with a client-first philosophy to help you achieve your goals.

Ready when you are

Our lawyers offer a broad range of experience and expertise, with a client-first philosophy to help you achieve your goals.