An estate tax is levied on the deceased's estate, while an inheritance tax is paid by heirs subject to the tax (spouses are usually exempt). Over a dozen states currently impose estate or inheritance taxes. Find out where you’ll have to pay... 24 Oct

2025 Update: States with Scary Estate & Inheritance Taxes

Relatives more prepared than ever to take costly legal action to fight for what they feel is 'their due slice' of family wealth— Attempts to have a will ruled invalid have surged 61% in five years... 23 Oct

Family Feuds Over Inheritances Surge 61% in UK

Elderly and vulnerable people are prime targets for cybercriminals and scammers. Talk to your entire family about the common schemes that cybercriminals employ. Have a conversation about how they can protect themselves today. 23 Oct

Helping Elderly and Vulnerable Loved Ones Avoid Cyber Scams

When someone dies owing more money than their estate contains, the situation becomes an insolvent estate. Understanding the laws governing insolvent estates is crucial for anyone appointed as an estate trustee. 23 Oct

Complete Guide to Understanding Insolvent Estates in Ontario

Trustees are legally obligated to act in the best interest of the beneficiaries. Aligning the trustee’s responsibilities with the best interests of the beneficiaries is a core principle of trust law. 21 Oct

Understanding the Basic Rights of Trust Beneficiaries

Homemade wills can create confusion, delay and heartbreak for the very people you’re trying to protect. A will is one of the most important legal documents a person will ever sign. Spending an hour with an estate lawyer is not a luxury — it’s a safeguard against the horrors of homemade wills. 21 Oct

Cautionary Tales of DIY Gone Awry: The Horrors of Homemade Wills

To determine whether the photocopy could be admitted, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice applied the "four-part legal test for admitting a lost will" and found that all four criteria were satisfied... 20 Oct

Ontario Court Ruling: Photocopy of Lost Will Deemed Admissible

A successful dependant support application requires clear, detailed and credible evidence. This article explores these requirements, highlighting key principles from recent case law. 15 Oct

Burden of Proof: Building a Strong Dependant Support Claim

Since most farmers are, on average, 56 years of age, many family farms are expected to transition within the next decade. Farm succession requires an approach that considers the tax implications, the farming operations and the family’s wishes. 14 Oct

The Time to Discuss The Future of The Family Farm is Now!

The Guinness family’s story shows that inheritance without structure can lead to division... When assets, wishes, and responsibilities are clearly defined, you’re not just protecting your property—you’re protecting your family’s relationships and legacy. 14 Oct

Inheritance Conflict & Division: Lessons from The Guinness Family

While Canada’s tax system doesn’t impose a traditional inheritance tax, estate taxes through capital gains, final income returns, and probate fees can still shrink inheritances dramatically. By leveraging these strategies, you can pass down more of your hard-earned wealth. 09 Oct

Tax-Smart Inheritance Strategies for Canadians

Few legal disputes are as personal and emotional as challenging a will. Whether you are considering contesting a will or defending against a challenge, you should know what to expect... 08 Oct

Contesting a Will in Ontario: How it Works & What to Expect