Serving Coquitlam
Wills and powers of attorney for Coquitlam clients
We prepare wills, powers of attorney and representation agreements for Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam and Port Moody clients at our Surrey office.
A good share of the enquiries we take from the Tri-Cities are not really about a will. They are about a parent whose memory is going who never signed a power of attorney. These documents can only be made while the person still understands them, which is why the conversation is better had a year early than a month late.
How we help Coquitlam clients
- WillsDeciding who inherits, who administers your estate, and who cares for your children.
- Powers of AttorneyNaming someone you trust to handle your finances and property if you cannot.
- Representation AgreementsNaming who speaks for your health care and personal care if you cannot speak for yourself.
Courts that hear Coquitlam matters
- Port Coquitlam Provincial Court, 2620 Mary Hill Road: Provincial Court family matters and small claims for the Tri-Cities.
- New Westminster Law Courts, 651 Carnarvon Street: Supreme Court matters, including divorce and family property.
- Civil Resolution Tribunal (online): small claims up to $5,000 and most strata disputes.
Questions from Coquitlam clients
My father is losing capacity and has no power of attorney. What are the options?
If he still understands what a power of attorney does, he can sign one, and capacity is assessed for that document rather than in general. If he no longer does, a family member usually has to apply to the Supreme Court to be appointed committee of his estate, which takes medical affidavits, time and money. Either way, get advice quickly, because the first route closes.
How often should a will be reviewed?
Every few years, and straight away after a marriage, separation, birth, death, a significant purchase or sale, or a move to or from another province or country.
Where should the original will be kept?
Somewhere safe, accessible and known to the executor. The location can also be filed with the BC wills registry, so that a search after death finds it.
Can these documents be prepared in one meeting?
Usually the set is prepared over two: one to take instructions and one to sign. Where something is urgent, such as surgery scheduled for the week ahead, tell us and we will work to it.
Wills & Power of Attorney in other communities
Book a consultation
Tell us what has happened. We will tell you where you stand.
The first consultation is free, at our Surrey office on 120 Street.