When preparing a will, it’s not uncommon for awkward family dynamics to complicate the process. Strained relationships can make estate planning much more difficult , but that doesn’t mean you can’t have your final wishes met.
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Awkward Family Dynamics: In-Law Conflict & Your Estate

Money.ca
By Christy Bieber
December 20th, 2025

When preparing a will, it’s not uncommon for awkward family dynamics to complicate the process.

According to a 2022 study, as many as 15% of men and 60% of women reported having more conflict with their mothers-in-law than with their own mothers. These uncomfortable situations can make estate planning much more difficult — but that doesn’t mean you can’t have your final wishes met.

If you want your estate to stay with your children and not their spouses, a simple will might not give you the control you seek.

Using the right kind of trust lets you set clear rules over how the money can be used — and helps protect the inheritance from relationship breakdown, poor money management or unexpected life events.

To ensure your wishes are legally enforceable, it’s worth working with an estate lawyer to draw up a trust that best protects your legacy…