Probate Doesn’t Have to Be Overwhelming – We’re Here to Help - with Tim Louis
Simplifying the probate process for families and executors
in British Columbia.
Vancouver Probate and Estate Administration
Probate lawyer in Vancouver for executors, families, and estate disputes
Probate is paperwork, deadlines, and decisions made under stress. If you are acting as executor, waiting on a grant, or worried a conflict is brewing, we help you take the safest next step with clarity.
Educational information only, not legal advice. Every estate is different. For advice about your situation, speak with a lawyer.
Start here: pick the situation that matches your day
This page is built as a hub. It helps you identify what matters first, then routes you to the right resource or next step.
- I need to confirm authority and protect myself from mistakes
- I need help preparing or filing the probate package
- I am not sure when I can distribute the estate
Go to: Executor roadmap
- Something feels off about the will or the executor
- There may be undue influence or capacity concerns
- I am worried about deadlines
Go to: When disputes happen
If your goal is to reduce delay, lower conflict risk, and keep control over your legacy, start with your plan. See: Estate planning and wills and Power of Attorney.
Executor roadmap: a safer, calmer way through probate
Executors are often doing two jobs at once: grieving and managing risk. This roadmap is designed to reduce errors, delay, and conflict.
First 10 days: protect the estate and your position
- Secure the original will and key documents (death certificate, IDs, property and account records).
- Do not distribute assets or “advance” inheritances early. Preserve records and keep a clean paper trail.
- Identify assets that may pass outside probate (joint assets and beneficiary-designated accounts).
- If there is tension in the family, pause and get advice early. Small mistakes become big disputes.
Before filing: confirm authority and prepare the package
- Confirm the executor named in the will, or identify who can apply if there is no will.
- Build a complete asset and debt inventory (real property, bank accounts, investments, liabilities).
- Prepare the probate forms and supporting affidavits correctly to avoid registry rejection and delays.
After the grant: distribution rules and the “hold” period
In some situations, distributions should be held after the grant to protect against claims and challenges. Our dispute guidance explains the 210-day distribution hold concept and when consents or court orders may matter. Read: BC probate and will disputes
If you want the most practical executor help
Use our satellite executor resource, then come back here for local filing support and dispute triage: Executor in BC: first 90 days checklist
Probate costs and timelines in British Columbia
Families deserve clear expectations. Probate fees are set by legislation and depend on estate value. Registry timelines vary, and disputes add time.
- No probate fee on estates up to $25,000.
- $6 per $1,000 (or part) on value over $25,000 up to $50,000.
- $14 per $1,000 (or part) on value over $50,000.
Source: Probate Fee Act (BC). Fees are calculated on the probate fee value of the estate.
- Some estates move quickly once the filing is complete and accepted.
- Delays usually come from missing documents, valuation issues, disputes, or tax and clearance steps.
- You can file certain documents online through Court Services Online (CSO).
BC resources: After a Death (wills and estates), CSO eFiling help.
When disputes happen: the early warning signs
Probate becomes “estate litigation” when trust breaks down. The earlier you identify risk, the more options you usually have.
- A sudden will change late in life
- One person controlling access to the deceased
- Capacity concerns or medical red flags
- Executor delay, missing transparency, or uneven treatment
- Do not escalate conflict by sending accusations. Preserve evidence and timelines.
- Get clear advice about standing, deadlines, and the safest first filing step.
- If you are the executor, pause distributions until you understand risk.
Related hub links: Contest a will, Undue influence, Wills variation, Estate litigation overview
Estate planning and disability: where probate risks get higher
Estate planning gets more delicate when a loved one is living with a disability, chronic illness, or cognitive change. The stakes are higher, and the plan needs to be built carefully.
If a beneficiary receives disability assistance, the wrong inheritance structure can create avoidable harm. Learn more: Henson Trusts in BC
For families managing disability and legal planning together: Why disability changes estate planning and Do I need probate in BC?
Official BC resources
If you like to verify information directly, these are reputable starting points.
Probate FAQ
Short answers first. If you want advice for your facts, book a free consultation.
Do I need probate in BC if there is a will?
What is the difference between probate and estate administration?
How much are probate fees in BC?
How long does probate take in BC?
Can someone challenge the executor?
What if there is no will?
Related reading
If you are facing urgent deadlines, conflict, or uncertainty about your role, start with a free consultation: Contact Tim Louis & Company.
Why Choose a Vancouver-Based Probate Lawyer?
Choosing a local probate lawyer ensures that your legal support is aligned with British Columbia’s laws and local court procedures. Based in Vancouver for over 40 years, Tim Louis understands the complexities of estate law in BC and has helped countless families navigate probate with clarity and compassion.
We offer affordable legal services, straightforward communication, and personal attention from start to finish.
Why Choose Tim Louis Law
Why Work with Tim Louis & Company?
When it comes to probate and estate matters, experience matters—but so does heart.
At Tim Louis & Company, we’ve been trusted by families across Vancouver and BC for over 40 years. But we’re not just here to handle paperwork—we’re here to listen, understand, and make this process feel manageable for you.
✔ Local Experience You Can Count On
We know the ins and outs of BC probate law. From simple estates to complex family disputes, we’ve helped hundreds of people like you navigate this process.
✔ Compassionate, Clear Guidance
Probate isn’t just legal—it’s emotional. We’ll explain everything in plain language, answer every question, and give you space to breathe.
✔ Transparent Fees & Free Consultations
You’ll always know where you stand. We offer free initial consultations and clear, upfront pricing—so there are no surprises.
✔ Focused on Your Peace of Mind
This isn’t just about legal steps—it’s about helping you honour your loved one’s wishes and move forward with confidence.
Read what Tim Louis’ clients say here.
Take Action Today
Request a Free Consultation:
For a complimentary consultation on wills and estate planning, reach out to Tim Louis at (604) 732-7678.
Allow us to be your guide in crafting a secure and thoughtful estate plan. Contact us at (604) 732-7678 or via email at timlouis@timlouislaw.com to start planning for your future today.
Common Probate Situations We Handle
Every estate is different—but some probate situations come up again and again. If any of these sound familiar, we’re ready to help:
✔ Estates with Real Estate or Property in BC
If your loved one owned a home, land, or any real estate, probate is often required to transfer ownership—even if there’s a will.
✔ Missing, Outdated, or Conflicting Wills
Maybe the will is missing, unclear, or written years ago. Maybe there are multiple versions. We’ll help you sort it out.
✔ Family Disputes or Executor Conflicts
Probate can stir up emotions. If there’s tension between heirs or concerns about how the executor is handling things, we’ll help find a fair solution.
✔ Intestate Estates (No Will at All)
When someone passes away without a will, BC’s intestacy laws decide how their estate is divided. We’ll guide you through that process with care.
✔ Out-of-Province Heirs or Executors
Not local? No problem. We help people across BC and beyond manage probate matters in Vancouver—even if you’re out of town.
About Tim Louis
Tim Louis is a highly respected probate lawyer in Vancouver, BC, with over 40 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate the legal complexities of estate administration, wills, and probate. Known for his approachable style and depth of knowledge, Tim is committed to making the probate process as clear and stress-free as possible.
Whether you’re an executor trying to fulfill your duties or a family member seeking guidance, Tim provides trusted legal support tailored to your unique situation. He ensures that every estate is administered properly — according to the will, the law, and the best interests of all parties involved.
From filing probate applications to advising on estates without a will, Tim Louis and his team are here to help you avoid unnecessary delays, reduce the risk of disputes, and move forward with confidence.
Need advice on probate or estate planning in BC? Reach out to Tim Louis today to get compassionate, experienced legal guidance you can count on.
What Our Clients Say
“Tim and his assistants prepared my will with efficiency and empathy. I was very pleased with the service.”
— Dennis H. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Tim helped me settle my father’s estate smoothly and with care. Highly recommend!”
— Sue S. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Very professional, efficient, and understanding. I felt supported every step of the way during a challenging probate process.”
— Vajeh V. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Facing Probate or Estate Challenges? Tim Louis Law is Here to Help
Start With a Free Consultation
If you’ve lost a loved one and need help with probate or estate administration, we’re here for you.
Call Tim Louis today at (604) 732-7678 or email ✉️ timlouis@timlouislaw.com to book your free, no-obligation consultation.
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