Things change.
Humans are flawed.
Plan accordingly.
ANDREW BROWN
CONSCIOUS
ESTATE PLANNING
Life is constantly evolving. You form new relationships, set new goals, and uncover what truly matters to you.
Your Will shouldn’t be static. Planning for death and incapacity is less about accepting the end and more about honouring the life you’re living. As your life changes, your plans should grow with you.
By reflecting on what’s most important, you can ensure your loved ones understand your values when you can no longer explain them. It’s a compassionate way to align your life with your legacy.
REFLECTING
ON WHAT MATTERS
Your Will is one of the most significant tools you’ll ever create, directing how
your assets are divided, who is responsible for your estate, and who benefits from it. But creating a Will is massively misunderstood in contemporary life, and can be much more meaningful than just addressing logistics—it’s an opportunity to
reflect on your life and what truly matters.
ASK YOURSELF QUESTIONS LIKE:
- What is the purpose of my wealth?
- What message do I want to leave behind for my loved ones?
- How can I ensure my values are reflected in my estate plan?
- What do I want my loved ones to know about me beyond my possessions?
- What is my legacy?
Creating a Will isn’t just about legal clarity when you die or become incapacitated
it’s also about gaining clarity and direction for how you want to live.
FOUNDATIONS APPROACH
We offer two thoughtfully designed estate planning experiences — both grounded in compassion, clarity, and your unique life. The difference lies in how deep you want to go.
FOUNDATIONS LITE
Essential. Efficient. Supportive.
Designed for those who want a streamlined approach to estate planning with expert guidance and professionally prepared documents.
- Surface-level introduction to Conscious Estate Planning
- Focused education on legal tools for asset distribution and representation
- Customized legal advice for your personal and family circumstances
- Professionally prepared Will and Powers of Attorney
- Confidential notes kept on file to support your wishes
Additional self-guided estate management resources - ~2.5 hours with your Legal Coach (Lawyer)
FOUNDATIONS
Comprehensive. Reflective. Personalized.
Ideal for individuals or families who want to reflect deeply on their legacy, understand the emotional and legal implications of aging and death, and ensure their values are clearly woven into their estate plan.
- A full-circle introduction to Conscious Estate Planning
- Guidance on the emotional, material, and legal effects of aging and death
- Review of common pitfalls in inheritance planning
- Clear explanation of the roles of Executors, Trustees, and Attorneys
- A copy of Foundations of Legal Estate Planning by Brown Lawyers
- Customized legal advice tailored to your personal, family, and emotional context
- Professionally prepared Will and Powers of Attorney
- Confidential notes kept on file to support your wishes
- Additional self-guided estate management resources
- ~4.5 hours with your Legal Coach (Lawyer)
Explore Wills and power of attorney resources
Thinking about your death might feel uncomfortable, but it can bring clarity and fulfillment to your life. Learning more about Wills, Powers of Attorney, and estate planning is a simple way to start embracing life’s finite nature—and appreciating every day as a gift.
Answers to plan with confidence
Death anxiety is real and the greatest anxiety of our lived experience. When something feels uncomfortable, it’s often because we don’t know enough about it. While death is life’s greatest unknown, asking questions and gaining knowledge can make it feel less intimidating. You’re not alone—this is something we all face.
Do I need a lawyer to make a Will?
No. You can create a basic Will using a kit from Staples or Canadian Tire or through online apps. You can also find lawyers who offer low-cost Wills. DIY options typically range from free to a few hundred dollars.
Do I need Estate Planning?
Yes. Estate Planning involves preparing for your death and the possibility of cognitive impairment. It goes beyond a simple Will to address legal, financial, practical, emotional, and spiritual considerations. A good Estate Plan ensures your loved ones are prepared and empowers you to live with purpose, knowing you’ve planned for life’s inevitable transitions.
Do I need to work with a professional to help with my Estate Planning?
Yes. Estate Planning is more than just paperwork; it’s a thoughtful process guided by a professional. A skilled advisor will help you ask the right questions, understand your options, and craft a plan tailored to your needs. They can help you navigate complex issues and maintain a meaningful, lifelong relationship to support your evolving goals.
How often do I need to update my Will?
Update your Will whenever your circumstances change. While Wills aren’t permanent, your assets, relationships, and goals likely will evolve. Regular reviews of your plan—legal, financial, and emotional—are essential to keeping it relevant and effective.
What is a Codicil?
A Codicil is a legal document used to amend an existing Will. While cheaper, Codicils can create confusion by requiring multiple documents to understand your instructions. We recommend creating a new Will instead to ensure clarity and consistency.
If I have a Will in place, is that all I need?
No. A Will provides legal direction but often lacks practical and emotional elements, like listing assets or explaining the purpose of a gift. Comprehensive Estate Planning combines legal, practical, and emotional considerations, creating a full picture of your legacy. We invite you to read more here: https://brownlawyerspc.com/estate-planning/successful-estate-plans-have-this-in-common/
KEEP YOUR LIFE FRONT OF MIND
Life is hectic, but a little reminder to live purposefully can go a long way. Our newsletter offers simple ideas to help you refocus.