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52 www.canadianlawyermag.com TOP 10 WILLS, TRUSTS, AND ESTATES LAW BOUTIQUES 2025-26 software market is projected to grow from US$1.5 billion in 2024 to US$4.2 billion by 2033. These trends indicate that clients increasingly expect accessible, technology- enabled service, and firms that embrace both AI and specialized planning platforms will be best positioned to meet this demand. Balancing tradition with innovation Hull & Hull LLP's lawyers gather every week for a "Lawyers' Lunch" to discuss new case law, file management, and creative strategies for dealing with client matters. This long-standing tradi- tion reflects the firm's commitment to learning and open exchange. Founded in 1957, Hull & Hull is a leading name in estate, trust, and capacity litigation, with work ranging from mediation to appearances before the Supreme Court of Canada. The firm's reputation is built on client service, education, and innovation. Managing partner Suzana Popovic- Montag says, "We are deeply committed to balancing innovation with tradition, ensuring that our practice remains at the forefront of the legal field while honouring our rich heritage." The firm holds weekly AI training sessions, uses CoCounsel for docu- ment review, and leverages Otter.ai and Zoom for meeting summaries. However, Popovic-Montag is clear that technology must enhance rather than replace human judgment. She stresses that AI cannot substitute for critical thinking or emotional intelligence, and Hull & Hull invests in a closed, reputable system to ensure reliability and trust. Litigation with empathy Empathy is central to Hull & Hull's liti- gation approach. Popovic-Montag notes, "I have learned that no matter how tech- nical the legal issues may be, at the heart of almost every case is a human story, often involving grief, fractured rela- tionships, and longstanding tensions." The firm provides early, realistic advice to manage client expectations and prevent disputes. Their dual role as litigators and planners allows them to anticipate risks and explain both legal and human consequences. Education and mentorship are also core to the firm's culture. Hull & Hull publishes guides, hosts a long-running podcast, and encourages collaboration and mentorship. The firm's reputation for fairness and courtesy is well established, even as client needs evolve with changing family dynamics. By addressing issues early and focusing on practical solutions, Hull & Hull preserves both assets and relationships, exemplifying excellence in wills, trusts, and estates law in Canada. "It has become abundantly clear that the future of law must embrace AI. The efficiencies it brings into our workflows allows us the opportunity to provide greater client service and focus more on what we as lawyers do best" Suzana Popovic-Montag, Hull & Hull LLP Carver Estate Law & Litigation Phone: 902 608 7725 Email: inquiries@carverlaw.ca Website: carverlaw.ca Fern Law Phone: 416 748 4258 Email: kristine@fernlaw.ca Website: fernlaw.ca Goddard Gamage LLP Phone: 416 928 6685 Email: info@ggslawyers.com Website: ggslawyers.com Horne Coupar LLP Phone: 250 388 6631 Email: jill@hc-law.com Website: hornecoupar.com Hull & Hull LLP Phone: 416 369 1140 Email: spopovic@hullandhull.com Website: hullandhull.com Whaley Estate Litigation Partners (WEL Partners) Phone: 416 925 7400 Email: kim@welpartners.com Website: welpartners.com Arkin Furrow Estate Law LLP Bales Beall LLP Casey & Moss LLP Legacy Tax + Trust Lawyers TOP WILLS, TRUSTS, AND ESTATES LAW BOUTIQUES 2025-26 Conclusion: meeting the demands of complexity and change The 10 law firms recognized by CL exemplify the highest standard of excellence in wills, trusts, and estates law in Canada. Renowned for their expertise in planning, litigation, tax, and administration, these firms skillfully guide families through complex and chal- lenging situations. Each combines technical proficiency with compassion, offering support during life's most difficult moments. Beyond their caseloads, these firms serve as mentors, educators, and leaders, embodying the quali- ties that make Canada's estate bar a trusted cornerstone of the legal community. SPECIAL REPORT