Wills · Estates · Probate
Vancouver Wills, Estates & Probate Lawyer
Planning your estate or settling a loved one’s affairs shouldn’t feel overwhelming. Straightforward advice, fixed fees where possible, and a lawyer who explains things in plain language.
From our office in downtown Vancouver, Horricks Law helps individuals, families and executors across the Lower Mainland put clear, valid wills in place — and guides executors through probate and estate administration step by step. Whether you’re planning ahead or dealing with the loss of someone close, you’ll get straightforward advice, fixed fees where possible, and a lawyer who takes the time to explain every document and every step.
Why Horricks Law
Clients across Vancouver choose Horricks Law for clear advice, fixed fees, and a genuinely responsive lawyer — reflected in a 4.9★ rating from 59 clients.
Who we help
Two paths, one clear guide
What we do
Estate services
Wills
Clear, legally valid wills under BC’s Wills, Estates and Succession Act (WESA) — executor, guardians and distribution.
Powers of Attorney
Enduring powers of attorney so someone you trust can manage your finances if you’re unable to.
Representation Agreements
Decide in advance who makes your health and personal-care decisions.
Estate Planning
Beneficiary designations, joint ownership and tax-aware structuring.
Probate
We handle the probate application to the Supreme Court of BC on your behalf.
Estate Administration
Full guidance collecting assets, paying debts and distributing the estate.
Step by step
The BC probate process
The clear walkthrough most firms don’t give you.
Locate the will & value the estate
Identify the most recent valid will and inventory assets and liabilities as of the date of death.
Notify beneficiaries (21-day notice)
Give at least 21 days’ written notice (Form P1) to beneficiaries and anyone entitled under WESA.
File the probate application
Prepare and submit the application and supporting affidavits to the Supreme Court of BC registry.
Grant of Probate issued
Once the registrar is satisfied, the court issues the Grant — the executor’s authority to act.
Administer & distribute
Collect assets, pay debts and taxes, obtain a clearance certificate, and distribute the estate.
Fees
Clear, upfront pricing
Most wills and estate-planning work is a fixed, flat fee quoted before we begin. For probate and estate administration, you’ll get a clear estimate at the first meeting based on the size and complexity of the estate.
BC probate fees (paid to the court, separate from our fees) are scaled to the estate’s value: nothing under $25,000, then a tiered rate above that, plus a court filing fee. We’ll set out the expected fees for your estate at our first meeting.
Book a consultation
Speak directly with Jeffrey about your will or an estate you’re settling.
Why plan now
A will is the foundation of every estate plan
Without one, you’re considered to have died “intestate,” and BC’s Wills, Estates and Succession Act decides who inherits — which may not reflect your wishes and can leave your family with extra delay, cost and uncertainty at the worst possible time. A properly drafted plan lets you choose your executor, name guardians for your children, and provide for the people and causes you care about.
Meet your lawyer
Work directly with Jeffrey Horricks
You work directly with Jeffrey Horricks, a Vancouver lawyer who takes an unhurried, plain-language approach to estate matters. Whether you’re writing your first will or settling a complex estate as executor, he’ll make sure you understand your options and feel confident in the plan.
What Our Clients Say
EXCELLENT ★★★★★ Based on 49 reviews — See all reviews on Google
Jeff assisted us with the sale of our late mother’s estate. He was very responsive, knowledgeable and took the time to make sure we understood everything. He made the process very straightforward and stress free.
Jeff did an incredible job with the process during the sale and purchase of our homes. I was very impressed with the level of professionalism and white glove service provided. I recommend Jeff for any needs you have that he says he can meet!
Very professional, personable, everything going clearly explained. No mumbo jumbo.
FAQ
Wills & probate questions
Wills & estate planning
How much does a will cost in Vancouver?
We offer flat-fee wills so you know the price before we begin. A simple will costs less than a complex plan involving trusts or business assets — we quote a fixed fee at your first meeting.
What happens if I die without a will in BC?
You’re considered to have died “intestate,” and BC’s Wills, Estates and Succession Act decides who inherits — which may not match your wishes. A will lets you choose your executor, guardians and beneficiaries.
Power of attorney vs representation agreement?
A power of attorney covers your finances and property; a representation agreement covers health and personal-care decisions. Most complete plans include both.
Can I just use an online will kit?
You can, but small errors in wording or signing can make a will invalid or trigger disputes. A lawyer-drafted will is properly executed under WESA and tailored to you.
Who should I name as my executor?
Someone trustworthy, organised and willing to take it on. We’ll talk through the responsibilities so you choose well — and can name an alternate.
Probate & administration
What is probate and do I need it in BC?
Probate is the court confirming the will is valid and the executor’s authority. Banks and the Land Title Office often require a Grant of Probate before releasing or transferring assets. We’ll tell you if your estate needs it.
How long does probate take in BC?
It depends on the estate and current registry processing times, and generally takes several months from application to grant. We keep it moving and keep you updated.
What are the probate fees in BC?
The court charges a probate fee scaled to the estate’s value — nothing under $25,000, then a tiered rate above that — separate from legal fees.
What does an executor actually have to do?
An executor locates the will, values and secures the assets, gives the required notices, applies for probate if needed, pays debts and taxes, obtains a clearance certificate, and distributes the estate. We can handle the process with you — or for you.
I’m an executor and feel overwhelmed — can you handle it for me?
Yes. We can manage the probate application and guide the whole administration — notices, asset collection, debts and taxes, and distribution — so you’re not doing it alone.
Put your affairs in order — or get help settling an estate
Rated 4.9★ from 59 Google reviews — one of Vancouver’s most highly-rated law offices.
Book a consultation with a Vancouver wills & estates lawyer today and see why clients choose Horricks Law.