Calgary civil lawyers — strategic, clear, and on your side.

Estate litigation in Alberta refers to legal disputes that arise after someone passes away, involving the administration, distribution, or validity of their estate. These matters are typically heard in the Surrogate Court — a division of the Alberta Court of King's Bench — and can include will challenges, dependants' relief and maintenance and support claims, removal or appointment of an executor, accounting of estate inventory, and passing of accounts.

A will can be challenged on grounds including lack of testamentary capacity, undue influence, lack of knowledge and approval, improper execution under the Wills and Succession Act, or suspicious circumstances. Time limits apply — we generally encourage anyone considering a challenge to seek advice promptly after probate is sought.

Commercial litigation covers disputes that arise in the course of business: enforcement of contracts, debtor-creditor disputes, shareholder and partnership conflicts, breach of fiduciary duty, business torts, and disputes between small businesses, suppliers, and clients.

Yes. We assist both landlords and tenants with residential and commercial disputes, including Residential Tenancies Dispute Resolution Service (RTDRS) applications, evictions, security deposit disputes, breach of lease, and commercial lease enforcement.

Real estate disputes commonly involve failed purchase and sale transactions, deposit disputes, easement and boundary issues, undisclosed defects, breach of the purchase contract, and disputes with realtors or contractors.

Condominium law in Alberta is governed primarily by the Condominium Property Act and its regulations. We support owners, boards, and residents with bylaw enforcement, condo fee disputes, special assessments, governance issues, and disputes with property managers or developers.

Yes. Our employment practice supports both sides — drafting and reviewing employment agreements, advising on terminations and severance, addressing human rights and workplace harassment complaints, and resolving employment disputes through negotiation or litigation.

Stokes Law Civil lawyers bill between $300 and $475 per hour plus GST. Articling students bill at $225/hr, paralegals at $200/hr, and legal assistants at $185/hr. We're open to flexible fee arrangements where appropriate and offer a free 30-minute initial consultation.

Timelines vary widely. Simple matters may resolve through negotiation or mediation in a few months. Complex contested files — especially those proceeding to trial — can take 18 months to several years. We work to resolve matters efficiently and explore early settlement opportunities wherever appropriate.

Yes. We help clients pursue negotiated and mediated resolutions wherever it makes sense. Mediation is often faster, less expensive, and less adversarial than a contested court process.