In Canada, most trusts are separate legal entities taxed under strict rules in the Income Tax Act. Proper structuring is essential to reduce tax and avoid reporting issues. Regular reviews with your accountant and estate planning lawyer help prevent surprises. 14 Aug

Taxation of Trusts in Canada: How Does it Work?

The term "executor" itself is used across many legal systems and cultures. Other terms like "estate trustee" and "estate representative" are also used, but the core function remains the same: managing the estate according to the will. 14 Aug

Estate Executor: Role —by any other name— Remains the Same

Following the death of Ozzy Osbourne, headlines turned to an alleged change to his will, in which Ozzy stipulated that his widow, Sharon, is to receive a dozen black roses a week for the rest of her life... 14 Aug

Ozzy Osbourne’s “Black Roses” Request

Clear communication, updated documents, and proactive estate planning can help families minimize disputes over inherited wealth. 13 Aug

How to Minimize Family Disputes Over Inherited Wealth

Your pets depend on you and planning for their future is a meaningful way to ensure they continue to receive the love and care they deserve, even after you’re gone. 12 Aug

Financial Support & Care: Planning for Pets in Your Will

A separate situs will is a will that complies with the laws of a specific jurisdiction ("situs") where you own property. It is a strategy to manage multi-jurisdictional assets and can help reduce probate fees and other administrative burdens... 12 Aug

Estate Planning Terminology: Separate “Situs” Wills

It is important to understand the limited purpose and necessity behind 'Net Family Property' clauses. They are not a catchall for sheltering and protecting the inheritance of a divorcing beneficiary, although they usually have the appearance of trying to achieve this objective. 12 Aug

Understanding the ‘Net Family Property’ Exclusion Clause: Ontario

AI and Ethics Collide: A proposal to use artificial intelligence to recreate the voice of late actor Robin Williams has reignited a contentious debate around consent, legacy, and the ethical boundaries of generative AI. 11 Aug

Robin Williams Voice Recreation Proposal Sparks Backlash

Losing a loved one is never easy. What makes it even harder is when this loss is compounded by uncertainty about what happens to their debts... 10 Aug

Are You Responsible for a Deceased Loved One’s Debt in Canada?

If you want your family’s money to last, you need to know what these millionaires missed. The right habits make all the difference... 09 Aug

Making Your Family’s Money Last: Start Teaching Habits Now

Are you planning to leave real estate to a loved one under your Will? Do you want that property to be transferred free of debt or other claims? Language matters! 08 Aug

Navigating Bequests of Real Estate: Language Matters!

Huntington Hartford II, heir to the A&P grocery fortune, experienced a significant financial decline due to a series of failed ventures and lavish spending habits, ultimately leading to bankruptcy.  08 Aug

Heir to A&P Grocery Fortune Forced to File for Bankruptcy