CARVER ESTATE LAW & LITIGATION
We are ready to help with your estate law and litigation needs.
Our experience encompasses all aspects of estate planning and administration, as well as a wide range of disputes involving Wills, estates and trusts. From Yarmouth to Sydney, we have experience representing clients in all manner of estate matters. We have acted for various stakeholders in Nova Scotia estate matters, including major charities, private foundations, trust companies, executors, heirs, beneficiaries and other family members.
Wills and Estates, Nova Scotia
Practice Areas
At CARVER ESTATE LAW & LITIGATION, we provide the following legal services.
Wills and Estate Planning
Planning for the future is an essential step in securing your legacy and providing for your loved ones. We take the time to get to know you and focus on crafting personalized estate plans that reflect your wishes. From preparing detailed Wills and trusts to creating Powers of Attorney and Personal Care Directives, we guide you through every step of the process, to ensure your estate plan is comprehensive, thoughtful and secure. We also offer advice on various strategies to preserve family privacy and minimize probate taxes, including the design and implementation of Alter Ego Trusts, Joint Partner Trusts, and other private trust arrangements. In addition, we frequently work with clients to implement meaningful planned-giving strategies.
Probate and Estate Administration
Navigating the probate process can be overwhelming during an already challenging time. Carver Estate Law offers compassionate guidance and efficient estate administration services. We ease the burden of the probate process, allowing you to focus on your family and emotional well-being. Our focus is to ensure your loved one's estate will be managed with care, ensuring a smooth transition of assets and honouring their legacy with dignity and respect.
Estate Litigation and Dispute Resolution
In the unfortunate event of an estate dispute, having a knowledgeable and skilled legal team by your side is crucial. We are experienced in estate litigation and dispute resolution, employing strategic approaches to resolve conflicts effectively. Whether in mediation or in contested proceedings before the Nova Scotia courts, we advocate for your rights and interests. Our approach is to seek out amicable, private resolutions whenever possible. However, we also have the judgment to recognize those times when you need to stand your ground.
Civil Litigation
We recognize the importance of efficient and dynamic representation in civil litigation. Our focus lies in providing responsive, strategic advice and dedicated advocacy. Our collective experience spans such diverse areas of litigation as contractual disputes, property claims, shareholder issues, debt recovery, construction disputes, and liability claims involving personal injury and property damage. This breadth of experience empowers us to think strategically and to present innovative legal arguments, which we bring to bear in resolving our clients’ most important matters. While skilled in various modes of alternative dispute resolution, we will not hesitate to go to trial.
We are ready to help you.
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Wills and Estates Lawyer
About CARVER ESTATE LAW & LITIGATION
We are a Nova Scotia law firm focusing on probate, trust and estate law. Prior to our inception in 2023, Benjamin Carver was a partner directing the trusts and estates practice at one of Nova Scotia's largest law firms. Over time, Ben recognized a growing need to make these services available to clients in an independent, accessible, and comfortable setting. So he struck out on his own and established Carver Estate Law. Jeffrey Waugh and Robbie Mason then joined the firm, bolstering our estate litigation practice and expanding the range of litigation services we offer to include civil litigation involving property, shareholder rights and remedies, and commercial disputes.
Wills and Estates Legal Team
Meet the team
We are committed to understanding your needs and delivering excellent client service. We also believe in meeting you where you are, and strive to make our services available to clients throughout Southwestern Nova Scotia. Some of our most meaningful discussions take place at the kitchen table. So please do not hesitate to request an in-home appointment, particularly if mobility issues present a challenge.
Benjamin P. Carver, TEP
Principal Lawyer - (902) 608-7725
Ben is knowledgeable and experienced in estate law. He holds the Trust and Estate Practitioner (TEP) designation from the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners (STEP), the international organization for professional advisors specializing in estate and succession planning. He has also been recognized as a leading practitioner by The Best Lawyers in Canada for his expertise in Trusts and Estates. Ben earned his law degree from McGill University and completed the Osgoode Hall Intensive Trial Advocacy Workshop at York University. Ben serves as the Vice-Chair of the Health Services Foundation of the South Shore, supporting healthcare initiatives at both the South Shore Regional Hospital in Bridgewater and the Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg. He lives in Bridgewater with his wife, Blair McIlwain, and their rescue dog, Conrad.
Jeffrey D. Waugh
Lawyer - (902) 608-7764
Jeffrey is a versatile litigator with over a decade of experience. He began his litigation practice at a regional firm in Halifax and has since worked with both the Provincial and Federal Crown litigating complex files. Jeffrey has represented clients at all levels of court in Nova Scotia, including several appearances at the Nova Scotia Court of Appeal. He has also appeared at the Nova Scotia Utility and Review Board, the New Brunswick Court of King’s Bench, the New Brunswick Court of Appeal, the Federal Court, has participated in a federal/provincial inquiry, and has made written submission to the Supreme Court of Canada. Jeffrey’s practice includes estate litigation as well as other areas of civil litigation, including property disputes, shareholder disputes and commercial disputes.
Robbie S. Mason
Lawyer - (902) 608-7750
Robbie practices in the areas of wills, estates, and tax law. As a trusted advisor, she seeks to understand her clients’ unique needs and objectives. She is also a tenacious advocate, representing clients in disputes involving wills, estates, and inheritances. The hallmarks of her practice are meticulous preparation and attention to detail. Actively engaged in the Canadian Bar Association - Nova Scotia Branch, Robbie holds positions on the Young Lawyers Section executive and the Professional Development Committee. She also contributes to a local arts organization as a board member. Robbie began her career at a major Nova Scotia law firm, gaining experience in tax law, estates and litigation. Residing in Dartmouth with her feline companion, Harriette, she is now pleased to serve clients in HRM and all along the South Shore of Nova Scotia.
Wendy A. Schwartz
Estate Paralegal - (902) 608-7765
With more than 37 years' experience in the legal field, Wendy assists with the preparation of estate planning documents, probate applications, and estate accounting records. Wendy began her career with the historic Bridgewater law firm of Coughlan & Coughlan. In later years, she gained decades of further experience working with one of Lunenburg County's most respected estate solicitors, Kenneth O. Thomas, until his retirement in 2021. We draw frequently on Wendy's deep knowledge of probate procedure and wide range of other skills. Known for her bright smile and dedication to client service, she is an essential part of our team. Wendy lives in Waterloo, where she enjoys the peace and tranquility of Long Lake.
Michelle L. McIsaac
Litigation Paralegal - (902) 608-7757
With decades of experience in litigation support, Michelle is well versed in family law, estate litigation, and general civil litigation procedure. Her professional background includes supporting multiple lawyers simultaneously within high-stakes, fast-paced litigation environments. Well-organized and calm under pressure, she adeptly manages litigation workflows and provides invaluable support to our lawyers, helping to keep litigation matters on track and on time. Often the first person to arrive at the office in the morning, she prides herself on her proactive approach and get-it-done attitude. Michelle is a longtime resident of Bridgewater and an essential member of our team.
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CARVER ESTATE LAW & LITIGATION
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(902) 608-7070
Location
Suite 350, South Shore Centre
421 LaHave Street, Bridgewater, NS B4V 3A2