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?

An advance directive is a broad term for legal documents outlining your wishes for medical care if you become unable to make decisions, while a living will is a specific type of advance directive that focuses on end-of-life medical treatment.  19 Mar

What is the Difference Between an Advance Directive and a Living Will?

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

Divorce significantly impacts estate plans, potentially invalidating provisions naming a former spouse as a beneficiary or executor, so a review and update are crucial.  13 Mar

Life Events: The Significant Impact of Divorce on Your Estate Plans

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

Can You Decline or Step Down as Power of Attorney in Canada? 10 Mar

Can You Decline or Step Down as Power of Attorney in Canada?

Trustee vs. Executor: Understanding the Difference and Why You Need Both | If you’re like most people, you’ll need both— the executor to oversee the execution of your will and a trustee to manage and administer your trust. 25 Dec

Trustee vs. Executor: What is The Difference & Why You Need Both

What Is an Executor? Duties and Role in Estate Planning | An executor is the individual who carries out one's last will, ensuring that the stipulations and wishes of the deceased are carried out properly. 30 May

What Is an Executor? Duties and Role in Estate Planning

Abusive Guardianships: Prevention & Taking Action 19 Sep

Abusive Guardianships: Prevention & Taking Action

Different Roles & Responsibilities: Trustee vs. Guardian vs. Executor 27 Apr

Different Roles & Responsibilities: Trustee vs. Guardian vs. Executor