Estate Litigation Services in British Columbia
The loss of a loved one can bring not only grief, but also complex legal and emotional challenges. In many families, the process of settling an estate reveals questions that weren’t fully addressed — questions about fairness, intentions, and the legal validity of documents or decisions made in someone’s final years.
These uncertainties can trigger disputes that are difficult to navigate without experienced legal support. At Crossroads Law, we help individuals and families across British Columbia resolve estate litigation matters with clarity, care, and strategic guidance.
What is estate litigation?
Estate litigation refers to the legal process used to resolve disputes about a deceased person’s will, estate, or related matters. Even when someone leaves behind a valid will or clear instructions, disagreements can still arise — especially when:
- A family member believes they were unfairly excluded or treated unequally
- There are questions about whether the deceased had the capacity to make a valid will
- Someone suspects undue influence or coercion
- The executor or trustee is not fulfilling their legal obligations
- Disagreements arise over joint ownership, property transfers, or account management
In British Columbia, estate disputes are becoming increasingly common — particularly in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, where the value of estates is often high due to real estate. These disputes can be as emotionally charged as they are legally complex.
At Crossroads Law, we understand that estate litigation is never just about assets. It often reflects long-standing family dynamics, emotional histories, and the stress of navigating loss. We’re here to provide legal advice that is both strategic and sensitive to the human side of these conflicts.
Common estate disputes we handle
Our lawyers provide full-service support for a wide range of estate-related legal conflicts, including:
- Contesting a will – Including issues of validity, undue influence, or lack of capacity
- Wills variation claims – When spouses or children have been unfairly left out under BC’s Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA)
- Executor and trustee disputes – Including breach of fiduciary duty or mismanagement of estate assets
- Inheritance disputes – Between family members, beneficiaries, or blended families
- Trust disputes – Including contested trusts, trust interpretation, and trust administration issues
- Power of attorney and representation agreement conflicts – Particularly involving elder care or incapacity
- Incapacity disputes and certificates of incapability – Challenging or defending claims about a person’s legal decision-making capacity
- Estate administration issues – When delays, conflicts, or unclear instructions affect the estate’s management
- Dispute resolution – Litigation, negotiation, and mediation tailored to the situation
Helping you find a path forward
Whether you're responding to a legal challenge or trying to prevent future conflict, we’ll help you understand your options and take steps that align with your values and goals. Our estate litigation team combines legal skill with empathy and a practical approach — ensuring your rights are protected and your voice is heard.
We serve clients throughout Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, Richmond, and the wider Lower Mainland, offering in-person and remote consultations to support your needs wherever you are.
Reach out today to book your free consultation.
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