Theresa Arsenault, K.C., one of the most experienced and highly respected lawyers in the Okanagan, focuses on estate planning law and business law in her practice. Her clients benefit from her extensive experience and her practical, timely advice on estate planning, business, and real estate matters.
High net-worth individuals often face complex estate planning challenges created by the size of the estate, second or more marriages, or the desire to generate tax savings through trusts. For many years, these clients have relied on Theresa, a member of the Society of Trust and Estate Planners for assistance with wills, alter ego and joint partner trusts, estate freezes, discretionary family trusts and more. She also incorporates and drafts operating and partnership agreements for doctors, dentists and other professionals.
Theresa provides legal guidance to developers on First Nations and Crown land. This includes development of master planned resort or residential communities, and mixed-use commercial and residential developments on all types of lands. Lenders need advice on how to structure and securitize loans and acquire security on all types of lands. Corporations and limited partnerships, both local and international, retain Theresa’s services to accomplish all these goals.
Providing a range of legal services to ski resorts regarding land development issues, Theresa helps with unique legal needs related to the purchase and sale of properties, the negotiation of development agreements with the province, the settlement of Crown land issues, and issues involving contracts and real estate development.
Theresa has lived and practiced law in Kelowna for almost 40 years, building an extraordinary record of commitment and activity within the community. She has served as a Governor and Chair of the Board of the University of British Columbia, and as Co-Chair of UBCO’s External Community Advisory Committee. She was Co-Chair of the Okanagan Partnership and was a Director of the Canada West Foundation. In addition, Theresa is a member of Kelowna’s Chamber of Commerce and the Kelowna Estate Planning Council, and has previously served on the boards of the United Way, the KGH Foundation, the B.C. Cancer Agency, and the Okanagan University College.
Away from the office, Theresa enjoys local art, travel, wine, and food — not necessarily in that order. To balance these activities, she keeps fit with Pilates, cycling, kayaking and hiking. She is an aficionado of Canadian literature and history, and prioritizes her family and friends in her life. Theresa seeks to make a positive difference in the world through enhanced access to education.
*Providing services through a law corporation.