When a loved one passes away without a will (dies ‘intestate’), the estate is distributed to surviving relatives as per the succession law of the province. While parties agree on most issues such as real estate and money, disputes are often related to sentimental objects that may have low or zero monetary value.
At times, parties tend to hold on to the sentimental object to the extent that the hostility can result in larger disputes over the entire estate. In these cases, entrusting a professional, third-party mediator may be the best way to bring the contenders together and reach a consensus. If there is no agreement, selling the object and splitting the proceedings may be an option. Another strategy is that family members take turns in owning the sentimental object.
Creating a will with the help of an estate lawyer helps prevent stressful situations when it comes to estate distribution.