In legal matters, it’s not uncommon to encounter situations where different areas of law intersect. One such interesting intersection is the question of whether family lawyers can do the work of Wills and Estate Lawyers in Edmonton such as drafting wills and managing estate issues. The answer to this question lies in the complex nature of legal practice.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the nature of family law to better understand the role of family lawyers in wills and estates.
Legal Expertise in Alberta
First and foremost, it’s important to acknowledge that most lawyers in Alberta receive basic training in various areas of law during their education and training. These areas of law can include criminal law, family law, real estate law, and wills and estates. This means that family lawyers, as part of their general legal education, have knowledge related to wills and estate matters.
However, it’s crucial to understand that having basic knowledge does not automatically equate to proficiency in a specific area of law. Lawyers, including family lawyers, have a professional responsibility to ensure that they are competent in the areas they practice in. This means that while they may have the knowledge to draft a will, they must also possess the expertise required to navigate the complexities of wills and estates effectively.
The Domain of Family Law
As a specialized area of legal practice, family law primarily deals with legal matters that revolve around familial relationships. This can encompass issues such as marriage, divorce, child custody, spousal support, and the division of property acquired during a marriage. The core focus of family law is to provide legal counsel and representation to individuals going through these challenging life events.
But family lawyers, due to their broad legal training, might also have knowledge related to wills and estates, although this is not their primary area of expertise. This dual knowledge can be beneficial in certain situations where family law and estate matters overlap, such as during divorce proceedings when wills and estate planning issues come into play.
The Intersection of Family Law and Wills/Estate Matters
In many cases, the issues surrounding wills and estates intersect with family law matters. For instance, during a divorce, it’s not uncommon for individuals to revisit their wills and estate plans. Divorcing parties may wish to revise beneficiaries, address property division, and provide for the care of their children. In such cases, family lawyers may play a role in updating these documents to reflect the new circumstances.
However, when it comes to complex estate planning or handling the administration of a deceased person’s estate, an experienced Wills and Estates Lawyer in Edmonton is often more suitable. These lawyers have extensive experience in drafting wills, creating trusts, managing probate, and handling estate litigation.
Importance of Seeking Experienced Wills and Estate Lawyers in Edmonton
While family lawyers may have a working knowledge of wills and estates, it’s crucial to emphasize that expertise in these areas often requires specialized training and experience.
At KBL Law, our dedicated team of wills and estate lawyers is well-versed in such cases, ensuring that you receive assistance in:
- Organizing Your Assets: We understand the financial intricacies of wills and estates, working closely with you to thoughtfully organize your assets for the security of your family’s financial future.
- Writing a Will: Our lawyers collaborate with you to create a legally sound and tailored will, addressing your specific wishes, distribution of assets, and beneficiary designations.
- Establishing a Power of Attorney and Personal Directive: We guide you through the establishment of a power of attorney and personal directive, securing your interests and ensuring your chosen representative is well-informed and prepared.
Conclusion
In Edmonton, most family lawyers have a basic understanding of wills and estate matters. However, the complexity and intricacies of these issues demand expertise. When you’re dealing with wills and estates, it’s essential to consult an experienced Edmonton Wills and Estate Lawyer at KBL Law to ensure that your legal matters are handled with the utmost care and precision.
Contact us today for more information about our will and estate legal services. Our experienced team is ready to answer any queries you may have.