Frequently Asked Questions: Role & Responsibilities of The Executor 02 Apr

How Much Time & Effort is Involved in Serving as an Estate Executor?

Estate disputes can tear families apart and leave valuable assets in limbo. When tensions rise and estate administration becomes impossible, there is a powerful legal solution that many people do not know about: an Estate Trustee During Litigation (ETDL). 25 Mar

“Estate Trustee During Litigation” (ETDL): Benefits & FAQs

What rights do the beneficiaries of a will get and what does it mean for others involved in the administration of the estate? Find out what you need to know, as the executor of an estate... 21 Mar

Executors: What Do Beneficiaries Have a Legal Right to Ask of You?

A contingent beneficiary is a backup beneficiary who inherits assets if the primary beneficiary is unable to, for example, if they predecease you or are unable to accept the inheritance. You likely need a contingent beneficiary to ensure your assets are distributed as intended, even if your primary beneficiary can't receive them.  19 Mar

What is a Contingent (or Secondary) Beneficiary?

On occasions a will may have been prepared in such a manner that it is not clear precisely what the testator intended. Competing interpretations can often lead to a dispute between parties... 19 Mar

What Happens When a Will is Vague or Ambiguous?

Most individuals consider purely domestic estate matters to be complex and challenging.  Add another country into the equation and the legal complexity quickly multiplies. 19 Mar

Navigating Cross-Border & Multijurisdictional Estate Matters

In estate planning, a beneficiary designation is the act of naming the person or entity who will inherit specific assets, like life insurance proceeds or retirement account balances, upon your death, bypassing the probate process.  18 Mar

Beneficiary Designations: Bypassing the Probate Process

Being an executor is no easy task. While it can be a great honor, the role comes with significant responsibilities and potential risks. Before agreeing to serve as an executor, make sure you understand the scope of your duties and the possible hazards involved.  16 Mar

Surprising Hazards of Being an Executor: Know the Risks!

In Canada, inheritance laws are primarily governed by the provincial and territorial laws rather than a single federal law, as inheritance matters are under provincial jurisdiction. However, certain general principles apply across the country... 12 Mar

Inheritance Laws in Canada: Understanding Provincial Jurisdiction

Although still commonly used, in Ontario the term "probate" stopped being officially used on April 1, 1995 (no joke…). What is the process to obtain a Certificate of Appointment, with or without a will? This article answers some of the most common questions... 11 Mar

Frequently Asked Questions About Certificates of Appointment

Sometimes, an estate’s debts and liabilities are greater than its assets. In Canada, an insolvent estate can only be assigned into bankruptcy with the court's permission. This is specifically outlined in Section 49(1) of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA). 10 Mar

Assigning an Involvent Estate into Bankruptcy: Canada

While beneficiaries have many rights, the reality of probate can still create challenges. Navigating these obstacles is often more manageable when you know what to expect.  05 Mar

What Rights Do Beneficiaries Have During Probate?