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On June 21, 2013, coincidentally the first day of summer, Stan Galbraith attended his first Board meeting as one of the newly elected Directors of the Appropriate Dispute Resolution Institute of Alberta (ADRIA).

Death and real estate can be a complex issue. To put it simply, when someone dies, the ability to transfer any land is lost until a Court Order, known as a Grant, is obtained.

First and foremost I was struck by the caring, dedication and compassion of the staff and volunteers at the Sturgeon. I have been a member of the Ethics Committee at this hospital since 2007 so I am intimately familiar with the commitment and expertise of my fellow committee members. Over the years, we have tackled some sensitive and important issues.

One of the fundamental building blocks of every corporation is the share capital. This is the means by which investors own the business. In old English law, it started out very simply. People who invested in and owned the business did so through holding shares in the business.

Previously, we discussed how we all have habits and preferences, most of which we are not aware of. These habits and preferences unconsciously dictate our behavior throughout the day. In fact, the vast majority of the time this makes life easier.

One of the greatest legacies you can leave is through charitable giving in your will. The vast majority of Canadians give to charity every year during their lifetime. In Alberta, the percentage of people making gifts to charity every year is the highest in Canada.

Many people have asked us what a Personal Representative or Executor of charge for their services. Some inquiries originate from beneficiaries who understandably wish to make sure estate expenses are kept to a minimum.

In my last post, I talked about our habits and preferences. How we tend to sit in the same chair both at home, at work or in public places such as meetings, church or seminars. Paying attention to habits and preferences of others can help us put them at ease and build a stronger relationship.

Identification with your photograph issued by a governmental authority is required to do business with Galbraith Law. Whether completing a real estate purchase or sale, signing a new will or incorporating a new business government issued photo ID is essential.

Ever notice how people will sit in the same chair when they go to a meeting, seminar, church, lunchroom, theater or especially at home?

We are often asked: Should I incorporate? What about the share structure? What should it look like? I’m thinking about employee share ownership. How does that work? What about a Unanimous Shareholders Agreement? How can I sell my business? Should I sell shares or assets? My accountant says it is time for a corporate restructuring. What does that look like? Can you help me with succession planning?

The rules for distribution on intestacy changed substantially when the new Wills and Succession Act arrived in Alberta.