Your Wills and Estates Lawyer in Surrey, BC
Contemplating future plans in view of death or incapacity is not pleasant, but it is a sound investment. With the right legal services, estate and incapacity planning are the means to ensure your wishes are met, while sparing your loved ones from financial and legal complications.
Comprehensive Estate Plans That Protect Your Wishes Now And In Future
Campbell Redmond has been serving residents in Surrey, Langley and Delta, British Columbia, since 1992. Our lawyers do not just provide formulaic drafting of legal papers. We take the time to provide each client with a personalized estate planning session. We will listen to your goals, answer questions, and fully explain your options.
We use strategies aimed at protecting your true wishes not only after death, but also in case you ever suddenly become unable to express yourself. Our lawyers are experienced in using every legal means available to help avoid future complications or litigation. Some of the tools we recommend include:
- Wills
- Trusts
- Powers of attorney for financial and legal affairs
- Representation agreements for health and personal care
- Other legal strategies such as joint tenancy and charitable giving to reduce or eliminate tax and probate costs
We Take Over The Burden Of The Estate Administration Process
Even with a comprehensive estate plan in place, administering an estate after death is often time-consuming, detailed and complicated. Our firm can take over the burden for bereaved family members and close estate matters accurately and efficiently. We will:
- Validate the will
- Locate and notify beneficiaries
- Identify and distribute assets
Legal Representation When Estate Disputes Arise
Our lawyers can also help whether you are currently experiencing a will contest or if a dispute arises during your estate planning. We can provide legal advice and representation for such complex estate litigation issues as:
- Improperly drafted or unclear estate documents
- Will variations to change the terms of a will
- Claims that the deceased was wrongly influenced or mentally incapable
- Wrong conduct or breach of duty by executors and trustees
Attorney and Representation Agreements
A Power of Attorney and a Representation Agreement can be useful planning tools that protect you if you become unable to manage your own financial or personal affairs. These documents allow you to appoint trusted individuals to make decisions on your behalf. When such documents are properly prepared, they ensure your wishes are respected and that your finances, health care, and personal matters are handled by the people you choose.
Some of our legal services include:
- Drafting and updating Powers of Attorney
- Preparing Representation Agreements for health and personal care decisions
- Advising on the scope and limits of legal authority granted
- Ensuring documents comply with British Columbia legislation
- Reviewing existing documents for accuracy and validity
- Assisting with challenges, changes, revocation, or replacement of appointments
- Coordinating Powers of Attorney and Representation Agreements with overall estate planning
- Resolving disputes or concerns related to decision-making authority
- Supporting capacity planning and risk management
Why Work with Campbell Redmond
Campbell Redmond has been helping clients in Surrey, Langley, and Delta since 1992. We provide reliable legal guidance for individuals and businesses, combined with personal service and clear communication.
Why clients choose us time and time again:
- Over 30 years of trusted experience
- Strong background in real estate, business law, litigation, employment, and estate law
- We are hands-on and detail-focused
- We do not do hand-offs; our attorneys provide personalized legal support
- Clear, honest advice with no jargon
- We respond quickly and we have a client-first mentality
- Our fees are transparent and affordable
We take the time to understand your legal requirements and protect your best interests every step of the way!
Call 604-585-4444 or fill out our online form to arrange a consultation.
Plan For The Future By Consulting Today
Take the first step to arrange your affairs. Our lawyers are ready to advise and guide you through the process. Call 604-585-4444 or fill our online form to arrange a consultation.
FAQ
What is probate?
Probate is the legal process in which a court reviews and confirms a deceased person’s Will (if one exists) and formally authorizes the executor to administer the estate. It gives the executor legal authority to gather assets, pay debts, and distribute the estate to beneficiaries.
What happens if I die without a Will?
If you die without a valid Will (this is called intestacy), your estate will be distributed according to British Columbia’s Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA), not your personal interests or wishes.
Under WESA:
- The administrator of your estate will generally need to be agreed upon by your next of kin, or else by court order
- Your assets will be divided among your spouse, children, or closest relatives based on the legal formula set out in the Succession Act
- Friends, charities, step-children, or other intended beneficiaries will not receive anything unless they are legally entitled
- Your choice of guardian for minor children cannot be formally recognized
- The process can take longer and may create confusion, cost, and conflict for loved ones
Having a Will gives you control over who inherits your assets, who manages your estate, and who cares for your children if needed. We strongly recommend putting a Will in place to make sure your concerns are clearly documented and legally protected.
For help with estate planning, contact our experienced team today.
What does it cost to probate a Will?
The cost of probate in BC depends on the value and complexity of the estate. Costs generally include:
- Probate (estate administration) fees based on estate value
- A court filing fee
- Possible legal or professional fees
- Additional expenses such as document copies, property appraisals, and mailing costs
What is a Living Will?
In BC, the term “living will” usually refers to documents that outline your wishes if you become medically incapable.
These include:
- An Advance Directive, which sets out your instructions for medical care
- A Representation Agreement, which appoints someone to make health care decisions for you if you are unable
These documents apply while you are still alive and cannot make decisions for yourself. They are separate from your Will, which only takes effect after death.
How often should I review my Will?
We recommend that Wills should be reviewed every 3–5 years, even if nothing major has changed.
You should also review it after important life events such as:
- Marriage, divorce or separation
- Change in financial circumstances
- Having or adopting children
- The death of a beneficiary or executor
- Buying or selling property
- Major changes in finances or family relationships
Regular reviews ensure your Will still reflects your wishes and remains legally effective.
Practice Areas in Surrey, BC
Wills, Estate Administration and Estate Litigation
We help clients prepare clear, legally sound wills, guide executors through estate administration, and represent individuals in resolving disputes involving estates, trusts, and inheritances.
Business Law
We support business owners with incorporations, shareholder agreements, contracts, and day-to-day legal needs to help companies operate securely and protect their long-term interests.
Commercial Real Estate
We assist with commercial property transactions, leases, financing, development, and due diligence, providing practical legal advice to help businesses make informed decisions.
Residential Real Estate Conveyancing
We handle the legal work involved in buying or selling a home, including title reviews, mortgage documentation, and closing processes.
Civil Litigation
We represent clients in disputes involving contracts, property, financial matters, and other civil issues. Our attorneys work toward cost-effective solutions inside or outside the courtroom.
Employment Law
We advise employers and employees on workplace rights, employment contracts, wrongful terminations, and conflict resolution. Our goal is to help clients address issues fairly and quickly.
Contact with Campbell Redmond — Law Firm in Surrey, BC
Located in the Guildford Office Park
Address: 15225 104 Ave #405, Surrey, BC V3R 6Y8
Phone: (604) 585-4444
Email Address: crlaw@uniserve.com
Office Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
