“With legal experience across multiple jurisdictions, I bring a thoughtful and disciplined approach to my practice, grounded in respect for the law and a commitment to excellence. I strive to provide clear, practical guidance and build strong, lasting relationships so my clients feel supported and confident every step of the way.”
Alida Malherbe is an Associate in the Business Group at Watson Goepel with a practice focused on Wills, Estates & Trusts.
She assists clients with all aspects of estate planning, including wills, trusts, and related matters, providing clear, practical, and responsive advice. She also guides clients through the probate process with empathy and care, recognizing the emotional challenges of grief and the complexities that can arise during estate administration. She believes that great legal service begins with listening, learning, and adapting and she remains committed to growing her expertise to better serve those who rely on her.
Alida holds a Master’s degree in Estate Law and brings a pragmatic, client-focused perspective to her work. Her experience across multiple legal systems has strengthened her ability to deliver clear communication and practical solutions.
Alida began her legal career in South Africa, where she practiced for 11 years before relocating to Vancouver with her family and qualifying to practice in Canada. While completing her requalification through the National Committee on Accreditation, she gained valuable experience working as a paralegal at a leading North Shore law firm.
She is fluent in both English and Afrikaans.
When Alida is not practicing law, she’s a devoted mother who can usually be found cheering from the sidelines of a sports field or chasing the action at the local bike track. Supporting her kids’ passions is one of her greatest joys.
Blended families are increasingly common in British Columbia, and they bring unique estate planning challenges. Second marriages, children from previous relationships, and step‑family dynamics can all complicate decisions about who should inherit and how loved ones should be supported after death. Questions like “Who inherits my estate?” or “Do stepchildren have inheritance rights in Canada?” become critically important.
Probate in British Columbia is the legal process that confirms a deceased person’s will and authorizes the executor to administer the estate. While not every estate requires probate, it is often necessary when real estate or significant assets are involved. Understanding when probate is required in BC, how probate fees are calculated, and how the process works can help executors and beneficiaries avoid delays, reduce costs, and minimize disputes during estate administration.
The Malacek v. Young case reminds us how costly unsubstantiated allegations can be, both legally and personally.