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50 www.canadianlawyermag.com TOP 10 WILLS, TRUSTS, AND ESTATES LAW BOUTIQUES 2025-26 sary escalation. The firm's strategy empha- sizes encouraging open communication with opposing counsel, identifying client interests and need rather than rigid positions, docu- menting resolution terms to avoid future misunderstandings. "Fern Law's approach does not suggest that we aren't fierce advocates for our clients, but the overly aggressive obstructionist approach to litigation typically only benefits lawyers by increasing the legal fees the client has to pay," Anderson says. Disputes and litigation growth Families often avoid or delay conversations about inheritance out of fear of conflict, increasing the risk of disputes later. A STEP survey found that only four percent of clients communicate very effectively with their families about wealth, while 41 percent said communication was only somewhat effective, and the rest acknowledged major shortcomings. Avoidance, cultural barriers, and a belief that succession planning can be put off all add to the silence. Distrust in heirs or concerns about mismanagement, along with worries about spendthrift behaviour, irresponsible heirs, or conflicts with children's spouses and partners, are recurring triggers. Combined with poor communication, these dynamics create fertile ground for disputes that increasingly end up in litigation. Nova Scotia's Carver Estate Law & Litigation has made its reputation in precisely this space. The firm has earned recognition in the prov- ince and beyond for its focus on estate disputes. Ranked Tier 1 locally for trusts and estates, the first-time Top 10 awardee combines planning and administration with a strong litigation practice. Principal lawyer Benjamin P. Carver says the firm's approach reflects the reality that estate work often turns contentious. Carver notes a clear trend in the disputes landing before the courts. "The most common disputes now involve wealth transfers made outside the will," he says. These include joint accounts, benefi- ciary designations, and last-minute prop- erty transfers, where large sums of money can be moved quickly, often with little advice or oversight, and usually surface only after death. "The result is frequent litigation over capacity, undue influence, and resulting trusts," he adds. Balancing cost, fairness, and relationships Estate litigation is both costly and emotional, Carver says, and the firm's approach reflects that reality. "Relationships are at the heart of almost every estate dispute, and they shape how we approach resolution." The firm carefully weighs more than just financial considerations when advising clients, factoring in family relationships, privacy concerns, and reputation. "When a practical resolution is possible, we move toward it quickly; when it is not, we prepare to see CANADIAN LAWYER'S READERS WERE QUICK TO HIGHLIGHT WHAT SETS THESE FIRMS APART. HERE'S WHAT THEY HAD TO SAY ABOUT THIS YEAR'S TOP 10. "Estate disputes are deeply personal, and because we concentrate on this area of law specifically, we are immersed in it every day and bring real passion to our advocacy" Benjamin P. Carver, Carver Estate Law & Litigation SPECIAL REPORT Hull & Hull LLP: "Ian Hull and his team show real commitment to the estate bar through mentorship, professional development, and responsiveness on time-sensitive matters." Casey & Moss LLP: "They stand out not just for expertise, but for consistently leading with empathy, trust, and support for clients in tough family situations." Bales Beall LLP: "They handle highly contested disputes with efficiency and focus on results, drawing on family law insight to resolve complex dynamics." Arkin Furrow Estate Law LLP: "They pay close attention to detail and approach every issue with a problem-solving mindset." Goddard Gamage LLP: "They combine litigation and solicitors' work with real care for clients and remain recognized leaders in the field." Fern Law: "Kristine Anderson and her team deliver practical, effective advice and have earned lasting trust with referrals." Whaley Estate Litigation (WEL) Partners: "A leader not just for client satisfaction but also for education, public awareness, and community support." Carver Estate Law & Litigation: "Ben Carver and his team went above and beyond in a complex dispute, winning the case through meticulous research and courtroom skill." Legacy Tax + Trust Lawyers: "They bring depth across planning and litigation, with the tax expertise needed for complex estates and trusts." Horne Coupar LLP: "They combine knowledge and experience with practical advice, exceptional service, and strong community commitment."