Must the Executor Go Down with the Ship? Navigating Your Duties with Maritime Assets

Darren Williams is the founding principal of League and Williams Lawyers, a respected litigation firm in Victoria, BC. With more than two decades of experience representing clients at every level of court in Canada, including the Supreme Court of Canada, Darren is known for his practical approach, strong advocacy, and commitment to helping people achieve fair outcomes. His practice focuses on estate disputes, personal injury, transportation, and marine law. Before becoming a lawyer, Darren spent years working in the commercial fishing industry, logging more than 1,000 days at sea along the BC coast, giving him a unique firsthand perspective that continues to inform his work in the marine sector.

Administering an estate that includes boats, vessels, fishing licences, or quota can present unique legal, regulatory, and practical challenges. Executors are often faced with complex decisions that carry significant financial and personal liability risks if not handled properly.

Join maritime and estate litigation lawyer Darren Williams as he explores the key considerations involved in managing maritime assets within an estate. Drawing on both his extensive legal experience and firsthand background in the commercial fishing industry, Darren will provide practical guidance to help executors navigate these specialized responsibilities with confidence.

Topics will include:

• Boats and Vessels: understanding ownership, title, registration requirements, insurance obligations, liability exposure, and tax considerations.
• Fishing Licences and Quota: navigating transferability rules, regulatory compliance requirements, and critical timing considerations.
• Executor Duties: prudent administration practices, documenting decisions, managing risk, and avoiding personal liability.

Whether you are an executor, estate professional, advisor, or involved in the marine industry, this session will provide valuable insights into the unique challenges and responsibilities associated with maritime assets in estate administration.