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  • Legacy Lexicon
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
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Beneficiary Rights, Curated Content

Inheritance Laws in Canada: Understanding Provincial Jurisdiction

Many attorneys recommend trusts to their clients, but not everyone needs a trust. Here are some frequently asked questions about trusts, as well as answers to help you decide if a trust might be useful in your situation. 24 Jan
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions: Understanding Trusts

The Inheritance Games offers a thrilling exploration of estate planning through the lens of a captivating mystery. By learning from the fictional world of Avery Grambs, we can gain valuable insights into the importance of a well-created estate plan. 05 Nov
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Related Resources

Estate Planning Lessons from “The Inheritance Games”

Like most things involving blended families, estate planning can be challenging. With children from past relationships or a new marriage, you need to plan carefully to take care of everyone. 31 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Life Events

Why Estate Planning is More Challenging for Blended Families

High-profile estate disputes can offer invaluable lessons in effective estate planning. One prominent case is that of oil tycoon J. Howard Marshall II and his brief marriage to Anna Nicole Smith. 23 Sep
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Infamous Feuds

Estate Planning Lessons from J. Howard Marshall II’s Case

Planning to Disinherit a Child? Experts Urge a 'Rethink' | Family Disputes | Inheritance Horror Stories | Estates Gone Wrong 22 Jul
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Family Disputes

Planning to Disinherit a Child? Experts Urge a ‘Rethink’

A will in terrorem clause, also known as a "No-Contest" clause, is a legal provision that can be included in a will to discourage beneficiaries from challenging its validity. This clause disinherits any beneficiary who contests the will, which means they will not receive any inheritance. 10 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Legacy Lexicon

What is an “In Terrorem Clause” and How Does it Work?

Giving a chronic overspender an inheritance in hope that it will help change their money behavior is almost always magical thinking. Most lump sum inheritances disappear within a few years in the control of an overspender. 02 Aug
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Squandered Legacies

How To Protect Your Spendthrift Heir From Themselves

Disinheriting a child can tear a family apart, if —revealed only after the parent in question has died— it comes as a surprise. Much of this conflict can be avoided if the parent in question has a candid conversation with family members in advance. 16 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Family Disputes

Disinheriting a Child Shouldn’t Take Your Family By Surprise!

The name John Seward Johnson probably means very little to you, but you’ve certainly know the company that Johnson’s father co-founded. That’s right – Johnson & Johnson, the maker of baby products we’ve all used for generations. 27 Aug
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Infamous Feuds

Disinherited Children: Battle Over The Johnson & Johnson Legacy

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Recent:

In British Columbia, the law allows spouses and children to challenge a will if it does not make adequate provision for their proper maintenance and support. However, the legal system does not give you an indefinite period of time to fight for your inheritance.

Are There Statutes of Limitations for Estate Litigation in BC?

The decision in this case is a reminder that no-contest clauses, while powerful tools for discouraging wasteful litigation, will be read in light of the court’s inherent supervisory jurisdiction. Overly broad clauses may not achieve their intended effect...

No-Contest Clauses: Enforceable, But… Not Absolute?

A careful review of a corporation’s financial statements can reveal the importance of planning opportunities and tax considerations that may otherwise remain hidden.

Corporate Financial Statements Can Reveal Hidden Opportunities

A will is intended to provide clear instructions about the distribution of a person’s property after death. But what happens when an important clause is missing? This recent Ontario court case is a useful reminder of the difficulties that can arise...

What Happens When a Will is Missing an Important Clause?

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