Wills and Estate Law in Alberta involves the legal processes and tools used to manage, distribute, and protect a person’s assets and responsibilities after they pass away—or become mentally or physically incapable. This area of law includes:

• Wills: Legal documents that detail how your property, guardianship of dependents, and final wishes are handled.
• Estates: All of your financial assets, property, debts, and legal obligations.
• Probate: The legal procedure to validate a will and authorize the executor to administer the estate.
• Powers of Attorney & Personal Directives: Legal tools that allow others to manage your affairs if you’re unable to.
• Estate Litigation: Resolving conflicts involving wills, executors, beneficiaries, or suspicious changes to a will.

In Alberta, estate matters are governed by legislation such as the Wills and Succession Act, Estate Administration Act, and Surrogate Rules. These laws determine how your estate is managed—especially if no valid will exists.