Ask A Lawyer: What is an Enduring Power of Attorney and Personal Directive?

St. Albert lawyer, Matthew Kaup, answers questions about what is an enduring power of attorney and personal direction.

An Enduring Power of Attorney and Personal Directive are often-overlooked, but essential, parts of your estate planning. A Will is the document that governs when a person dies.  But, what if you are not capable of making your own decisions, but have not yet passed away? For younger clients, this situation is more likely to arise as a result of a car accident or brain injury. For more elderly clients, Alzheimers or dementia leading to a lack of mental capacity are more immediate concerns.  When a person is in this situation, alive but unable to make decisions for themselves, they should have...

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Ask A Lawyer: Will Kit vs. Lawyer

St. Albert lawyer, Matt Kaup, is answering common questions and concerns about will kits and will planning.

Why Would I Pay A Lawyer For My Will Instead Of Using A Will Kit? Many Albertans believe that they do not need a professionally drafted Will. While it is true that Alberta law does not require a lawyer to draft or witness a Will, having an expert talk to you about your unique situation, draft the Will accordingly, and be available to answer your questions and explain the document to you is well worth the extra cost.  Wills that are done with a “Will Kit” are hazardous for many reasons. The first, and most common, is that the Will is...

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