Wills and Estates Lawyer Near Pickering, ON

Wills and Estates Made Easy for Pickering Residents!

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services for Pickering Residents

Forrest Law is proud to serve the residents of Pickering, ON, with specialized legal services in wills and estates. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing personalized estate planning solutions that ensure your wishes are honored, and your loved ones are protected.

Why Choose Forrest Law for Estate Planning?

Estate planning is a critical process involving organizing your affairs to ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after passing. It also includes making important decisions about your health and financial affairs in case of incapacity. At Forrest Law, we make this process straightforward and stress-free, providing you with peace of mind.

Tailored Estate Planning Services

At Forrest Law, we recognize that each client has unique circumstances. Our approach to estate planning is centered around personalization. Whether you need help drafting a will, setting up a trust, or designating a power of attorney, we ensure your estate plan reflects your specific needs and desires.

Understanding the Essentials of Estate Planning

Creating a Will: A will is the cornerstone of your estate plan. It allows you to specify how your assets should be distributed, name guardians for your minor children, and appoint an executor to manage your estate. Without a will, the distribution of your assets will be determined by Ontario’s intestacy laws, which may not align with your wishes.
Setting Up Trusts: Trusts are versatile tools in estate planning that can help manage and protect your assets. They can be used for various purposes, such as minimizing taxes, protecting assets from creditors, and ensuring that beneficiaries receive their inheritance at the right time. Trusts can be particularly beneficial for individuals with complex estates or specific wishes about how their assets should be managed and distributed.
Designating Powers of Attorney: A power of attorney is a legal document that grants someone you trust the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated. There are two main types: a power of attorney for property, which covers financial and legal matters, and a power of attorney for personal care, which covers health and individual decisions.

Advanced Estate Planning Strategies

We utilize advanced legal tools and strategies at Forrest Law Practice to address modern estate planning challenges. This includes:

Digital Assets Management: In today’s digital age, it’s essential to include digital assets such as social media accounts, digital currencies, and online businesses in your estate plan. We guide managing these assets and ensuring they are transferred according to your wishes.
Minimizing Taxes: Effective estate planning can help reduce the taxes your estate will have to pay, preserving more of your wealth for your beneficiaries. Our team is well-versed in tax laws and can develop strategies to reduce the tax burden on your estate.

Committed to the Pickering Community

Forrest Law is deeply committed to serving the Pickering community. Our office in Oshawa is conveniently located and easily accessible for residents in Pickering and the surrounding areas. We are passionate about helping you achieve your estate planning goals. We are always available to provide support and answer your questions.

Location

285 Taunton Road East Unit #111, Oshawa, ON, L1G 3V2

Phone

289-295-3805

Let Us Help You

We will get back to you as soon as possible!

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a holographic will and a formal will?

A holographic will is entirely handwritten and signed by the testator, without the need for witnesses. In contrast, a formal will must be typed or printed, signed by the testator, and witnessed by two individuals who are present at the time of signing. Both types of wills are legally valid in Ontario, provided they meet the respective requirements.

Can I make changes to my will after it is written?

Yes, you can make changes to your will through a document called a codicil, which must be executed with the same formalities as the original will. Alternatively, you can draft a new will that explicitly revokes the previous one. It is important to regularly review and update your will, especially after significant life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child.

Can I name an executor who lives outside of Ontario?

Yes, you can name an executor who lives outside of Ontario. However, it may complicate the probate process, as the executor will need to handle estate matters remotely and might face additional legal requirements or logistical challenges. It is advisable to discuss this with a lawyer to ensure that the executor understands their responsibilities and the process.

What is a Grant of Probate, and why is it necessary?

A Grant of Probate is a legal document issued by the court that confirms the validity of the will and authorizes the executor to administer the estate. It is necessary because financial institutions and other entities require it before allowing the executor to access and manage the deceased’s assets. Without this grant, the executor cannot legally distribute the estate’s assets to the beneficiaries.

Can I revoke my will, and how should I do it?

Yes, you can revoke your will at any time. This can be done by creating a new will that explicitly states it revokes all previous wills and codicils, or by physically destroying the old will. It is important to ensure that the revocation is done clearly and legally to avoid any confusion or disputes after your death.