Wills & Estates

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Burlington Wills and Estates Lawyers

Martin & Hillyer has been providing Will and Estate services to Halton and surrounding areas for over 50 years. We understand that issues related to Wills and Estates can be sensitive and challenging to talk about. With support and expertise from Emma O’Donnell, we can assist in making sure you are 100% comfortable with your Estate Planning, leaving you to enjoy your life knowing your future is being looked after.

Prepare for the Future with Estate Planning

Our estate planning services focus on the drafting of wills and powers of attorney. Your will directs the distribution of your assets after your death. Without a will, your estate will be administered according to formulas put in place by the provincial government and this may not reflect your own wishes or your family’s best interests. We can draft a will for you that not only ensures your wishes are respected, but which has the best chance of being legally enforceable and standing up to potential challenges.

We're here to assist you with estate planning, administration and litigation.

Why Do I Need a Power of Attorney?

Powers of attorney are extremely important legal documents when preparing for the future. Powers of attorney allow you to appoint somebody who can make decisions on your behalf in regards to finances or personal care if you are unable to make such decisions yourself. They are especially important if you suffer an unexpected accident or illness that leaves you incapacitated.

Estate Administration

Estate administration is the process whereby an individual’s wishes (as set out in his or her Will) are given effect after death.

We strive to help you avoid disputes during the administration of an estate by providing clear and knowledgeable legal advice. If you are acting as an estate trustee, or executor, we will advise you on your legal duties and responsibilities to ensure that you are in full compliance with the law. In cases where a person dies intestate (i.e., without a will) we can assist you and your family in understanding how provincial regulations determine how the estate will be administered.

Sometimes estate disputes do arise. Whether you are challenging or defending a will, we can advise and represent you in the litigation process. We know that estate litigation can be extremely stressful and we are committed to helping you achieve the best possible resolution.

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What Happens When an Estate is Contested?

If a claim is made on an estate, the matter may proceed to litigation if the parties cannot come to an agreement. Litigation can arise for many reasons such as, possible undue influence or a dispute regarding the mental capacity of the testator. We understand that estate litigation can be an intimidating experience for many people, which is why we are here to help you through the process.

The compassionate and skillful Wills and Estates lawyers at Martin & Hillyer recognize how sensitive estate planning and administration can be and will do everything possible to help you plan for the future and avoid painful disagreements. Over the past four decades we have helped countless people throughout the Halton Region with their Wills and Estates needs and we look forward to helping you and your family as well. Contact us today!

Emma O’Donnell

Emma is a lawyer in Burlington who is proud to serve her local community with real estate, business law and wills and estates expertise.

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