The Bank of Canada has reduced their lending rate by 0.25% this morning. Great news for variable rate mortgage holders, as we expect the banks will follow suit in the coming days. While inflation remains a bit stubborn, the economy showed signs of weakness, particularly in the job loss category. It’s widely expected we will […]
Bank of Canada: Reduction of Lending Rate Read More »
Estate and incapacity planning can be confusing, especially with so many legal terms and documents to understand. Three of the most fundamental instruments in British Columbia—a will, an advance directive, and a trust—are often discussed together, but they each serve a distinct and important purpose. Understanding the differences between them is crucial for creating a
Many people think of a will as something to put off until later in life. But the truth is, a will is a fundamental estate planning document that provides clarity and peace of mind for you and your loved ones, and certain life events make it an absolute necessity. Here’s a look at the optimal
When Is the Best Time to Prepare a Will? The Answer May Surprise You Read More »
If you’ve recently moved to British Columbia or own assets here, you may be wondering if your Power of Attorney (POA) from another Canadian province or even a foreign country is still legally valid. It’s a critical question, as an invalid POA could prevent a trusted person from managing your financial and legal affairs if
My Power of Attorney is From Another Province. Is it Valid in BC? Read More »
A Power of Attorney (POA) is a powerful and essential legal document, but it’s not set in stone. Circumstances can change—relationships evolve, or you may simply decide you want to appoint a different person to manage your affairs. Fortunately, you can revoke or change a POA, but it’s crucial to follow the correct legal steps
How to Revoke or Change a Power of Attorney in British Columbia Read More »
Powers of attorney are essential legal instruments in estate and incapacity planning, allowing individuals to appoint trusted persons to manage their financial and legal affairs. In British Columbia, the law distinguishes between several types of powers of attorney, each with distinct features, legal requirements, and practical applications. This article provides a detailed analysis of the
Understanding the Differences: Powers of Attorney in British Columbia Read More »
Title insurance has become an essential component of real estate transactions in British Columbia and across Canada. While the Land Title Act (BC) and the Torrens system provide significant protections for registered owners, title insurance offers an additional layer of security for both purchasers and lenders. This article examines the role and importance of title
The Importance of Title Insurance in Real Estate Transactions Read More »
In British Columbia, discovering a material latent defect after the completion of a property purchase can be distressing for buyers. However, the law provides certain protections and remedies, which depend on the nature of the defect, the conduct of the seller, and the terms of the contract. What Is a Material Latent Defect? A latent defect is
In British Columbia, the conduct of real estate licensees—including realtors, brokers, and property managers—is governed by the Real Estate Services Act, SBC 2004, c 42 (RESA), the Real Estate Services Rules, and the Real Estate Services Regulation. The BC Financial Services Authority (BCFSA) is the regulatory body responsible for oversight and enforcement. 1. Duty to Act Honestly and
Regulation of Real Estate Licensee Duties under the Real Estate Services Act (BC) Read More »
What Protections Does the Land Title Act (BC) Offer Registered Property Owners? In British Columbia, the security and certainty of property ownership are underpinned by the Torrens land title system, as set out in the Land Title Act, RSBC 1996, c 250. This system is designed to provide robust legal protections for registered property owners,
Land Title Act of BC on Property Ownership Protection Read More »
Melissa has 8+ years of combined Commercial, Business and Contract Law experience as In-House Counsel in manufacturing, health, real estate development, and broadcast communication industries. She is instrumental in developing strategies to minimize legal risk and ensure regulatory compliance.
She has 6+ years of Human Resources Management experience and a Chartered Professional in Human Resources (CPHR) designation. Her practice includes Family Law, Civil Litigation, Wills & Estates and Real Estate & Conveyancing.
For fun, she visits ancient sites and ruins and belts out popular Broadway tunes.
Northam Law is a boutique law firm offering advisory services in Real Estate Law and Conveyancing, Business Law, and Human Resources. Our practice areas also include Wills & Estates and Family Law. Notarization services are also available.
