An estate trustee is required to act impartially between all the beneficiaries and to not favor one or more beneficiaries over others. This is colloquially described as the duty to ‘maintain an even hand’. 19 Sep

Treating Beneficiaries Equally: The “Even-Hand Rule”

Neutral Ground in Family Storms: How the appointment of a professional estate executor can help families navigate turbulent waters. 12 Sep

Reasons for Appointing a Neutral Professional in The Role of Executor

Without proper planning, your pets could end up in shelters or with people who aren’t prepared to care for them properly. Taking time now to make these arrangements ensures your faithful companions will be loved and cared for throughout their lives. 09 Sep

Choosing the Right Caregiver for Your Furry Family Members

You only have so many hours in the day, days in a week, or patience in being pulled in different directions. Being proactive may seem like extra work now, but it will pay dividends— plan ahead, and the journey will be much smoother. 05 Sep

Balancing End-of-Life Planning for Your Aging Parents and for Yourself

Incapacity can happen suddenly and without warning, but the good news is that it’s entirely possible to plan ahead. By putting the right legal protections in place, you’re not only preserving your dignity and autonomy—you’re also giving your loved ones the gift of clarity and guidance during uncertain times. 04 Sep

Planning Ahead for Incapacity and Medical Emergencies

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

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

An executor has both authority and legal duty. With that comes potential risk. Acting without proper guidance can expose you to delays, disputes, or even personal liability. This article highlights the top five executor missteps and how to steer clear of them... 03 Aug

Top 5 Mistakes Executors Make & How To Avoid Them: Ontario

The stakes are higher than most people realize. Without proper estate planning, your family could lose thousands of dollars to unnecessary taxes, face months of legal delays, and endure family conflicts that could have been easily prevented. 28 Jul

Complete Guide to Protecting Your Family: Estate Planning Ontario

Critically acclaimed drama series "Six Feet Under" provides a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of neglecting succession planning in a family business.  24 Jul

Family Business Succession Cautionary Tale: “Six Feet Under”

What is a Trust and Estate Planning Practitioner (TEP)? 22 Jul

What is a Trust and Estate Planning Practitioner (TEP)?

In Ontario, the term "executor" is now often replaced with "estate trustee" to more accurately reflect the fiduciary role they play in managing an estate. This change is not Canada-wide, but specific to Ontario's legal terminology.  21 Jul

Executor vs. Estate Trustee: Ontario Specific Legal Terminology