WILLS & ESTATE SERVICES WORK PLAN


The goal of this work plan is to assist Lower Nicola Band members collaborate with the Lands Department to build upon and establish strong connections with Lower Nicola Band families and their land through direct support of members’ wills and estates.

*This Work Plan is currently in development.



RESPONSIBILITIES


The Lands Department will review and compile research for land and estate related requests from Lower Nicola Band members in the order they are received. The Lands Department will allocate a portion of its time to general research related to ongoing estate matters that have not been formally resolved. To maximize efficiency, the Lands team will balance between responding to internal and external requests and researching information for the resolution of ongoing estate issues. The Lands Department will seek support from Membership Services, Human Services, and appropriate organizations, legal firms, and partnerships to coordinate with members and maintain LNIB records. Members are responsible for connecting with the Lands Department when they would like support.


APPROACH


The Lands team has identified the following list of key projects and activities for the successful development of the Lands Department Wills & Estate Services for membership.

  • Wills Project
  • General Estate Research
  • Resolution of Unsettled Estates
  • Research Enquiries and Requests
  • Community Collaboration
  • Lands Portal Online


SERVICES & SUPPORT


Wills Project
Lands team staff are working with a law firm to assist elders with updating and completing registered wills. This project is ongoing and is planned to occur on an annual basis. See Wills Project Member Selection Criteria & Process.

General Estate Research
Lands team staff actively conduct research and maintain Lands Department filing systems and are recovering records from members and other sources where possible. See Research.

Resolution of Unsettled Estates
Lands team staff have developed two report templates that are being used to identify land and estate issues relative to LNIB lands. Preliminary research is conducted to identify family connections, relationships, and traditional knowledge. See Research Reports.

Research Enquiries and Requests
Lands team staff are working together to manage requests from members about wills, lands, and estates in a reasonable timeframe. Requests from external sources and organzations are handled in a confidential and timely manner.

Community Collaboration
Lands team staff are planning social (virtual) gatherings and events where members can participate in open discussions with the community and the Lands Department and share their stories, personal records, and traditional knowledge. See Community Collaboration.

Lands Portal Online
Lands team staff regularly provide information to Band members about developments and activities that occur within the Lands Department and community through the online Lands portal and monthly newsletter. The LNIB Wills & Estates Member Handbook was created to assist Band members best handle wills and estate planning.