Wills & Estates

Planning what happens to the people and things you care about is one of the most important steps you can take, and one of the easiest to put off. At Salloum & Company, our Edmonton wills and estates team helps you put clear, legally sound documents in place so your wishes are respected and your family is protected. Whether you’re drafting your first will, updating an existing plan, or stepping into the role of executor, we explain every option in plain language and handle the details with care.

Our Wills & Estates Services

Wills

A properly drafted will makes sure your estate goes where you want it to and names someone you trust to carry out your wishes. We prepare simple and complex wills, review and update existing wills after major life changes, and make sure everything meets Alberta’s legal requirements under the Wills and Succession Act.

Estate Planning

Estate planning goes beyond a will. We help you structure your assets, plan for taxes and beneficiaries, and coordinate your will, directives, and powers of attorney into one clear plan that reflects your goals.

Enduring Powers of Attorney

An Enduring Power of Attorney lets you choose who manages your finances and property if you’re ever unable to do so yourself. We draft documents that give your chosen person clear authority while protecting you from misuse.

Personal Directives

A Personal Directive names someone to make health care and personal decisions on your behalf if you lose capacity. We help you record your wishes so your loved ones aren’t left guessing during a difficult time.

Probate & Estate Administration

When someone passes away, the estate often needs to go through probate before assets can be distributed. We guide executors and administrators through the Surrogate process, court filings, and their legal duties from start to finish.

Estate Disputes & Dependant Support Claims

Disagreements over an estate can strain families. We advise beneficiaries, executors, and dependants on contested wills, executor disputes, and family maintenance and support claims under Alberta law.

FAQs

Find answers to some of the most common questions our clients ask about our services and the legal process.

Do I really need a will if I don't have many assets?

Yes. Without a will, Alberta’s Wills and Succession Act decides who inherits your estate, and that may not match your wishes. A will also lets you name an executor and, if you have children, propose a guardian.

What happens if I die without a will in Alberta?

You’re considered to have died “intestate,” and the law sets a fixed formula for dividing your estate among your spouse, partner, and relatives. The court also has to appoint an administrator, which can add delay and cost for your family.

What's the difference between a Personal Directive and an Enduring Power of Attorney?

A Personal Directive covers health care and personal decisions if you lose capacity. An Enduring Power of Attorney covers financial and property decisions. Most complete estate plans include both.

Can I just write my own will at home?

Alberta does recognize handwritten (holograph) wills in some cases, but do-it-yourself wills are a common source of disputes and costly errors. A lawyer makes sure your will is valid, clear, and does what you actually intend.

How often should I update my will?

Review it after any major life change such as marriage, divorce, a new child, a death, buying property, or a significant change in finances. Even without big changes, it’s wise to revisit it every few years.

What is probate and is it always required?

Probate is the court process that confirms a will is valid and gives the executor authority to act. Not every estate needs it, but many do, especially when there’s real estate or larger financial accounts. We can tell you whether probate is required in your situation.

How long does probate take in Alberta?

It depends on the size and complexity of the estate and how quickly documents are gathered. Straightforward estates can move in a few months, while more complex ones take longer. We help executors keep the process on track.

I've been named an executor. What do I do now?

Executors have real legal responsibilities, from securing assets to paying debts and distributing the estate correctly. We guide executors step by step so they can carry out their duties confidently and avoid personal liability.

Can a will be challenged in Alberta?

Yes. Wills can be contested on grounds such as lack of capacity, undue influence, or improper execution, and dependants can make support claims. We advise on both bringing and defending these claims.

How much does it cost to make a will?

Costs vary depending on how complex your estate and wishes are. We’ll give you clear pricing during your free consultation so there are no surprises.

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