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  • Legacy Lexicon
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
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Related Resources

Surprising Hazards of Being an Executor: Know the Risks!

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
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Generated Content, 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
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

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
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Related Resources

Assigning an Involvent Estate into Bankruptcy: Canada

Whether you’re an executor tasked with administering a loved one’s estate or a family member seeking to understand what lies ahead, this comprehensive guide will walk you through every step... 25 Feb
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Related Resources

Complete Guide to Estate Settlement in Canada

Even the most well-meaning executors may encounter unforeseen difficulties during the estate administration process. Errors in estate administration can make an otherwise simple procedure more difficult. Learn more about these common mistakes and how to avoid them... 24 Feb
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Common Mistakes, Curated Content

Estate Administration in Ontario: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Careful planning and collaboration with estate professionals can help you avoid these common mistakes, ensuring your will effectively supports your loved ones and secures your legacy. Here are some thoughts to help you get your estate planning process underway. 19 Feb
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Common Mistakes, Curated Content

Getting Your Estate Planning Process Underway: Dos and Don’ts

Executor on the Case: Becoming a Detective for Missing Assets | Much has been written on the topic of missing heirs: how to find them, and what to do if you can’t. But what happens if you have missing assets? How do you practically move forward with an estate administration when you don’t know, well, what assets you’re administering? 14 Feb
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Communication Breakdowns, Curated Content

Executor on the Case: The Search for Missing Assets

Beneficiaries of an estate often want to know how long they should expect to wait to receive their share of the estate. Unfortunately, there is no simple answer to this question, as the timeline can vary considerably depending on the specific circumstances of the estate. 04 Feb
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does an Executor Have to Distribute Funds to Beneficiaries?

Understanding your rights to transparency, fair distribution, and legal recourse can help protect your inheritance and hold executors accountable. If you suspect wrongdoing or mismanagement, seeking legal guidance is the best course of action. 03 Feb
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Beneficiary Rights, Curated Content

Estate Beneficiary in Canada: Understanding Your Legal Rights

Executor negligence can cause trouble among beneficiaries, leading to bad sentiment and possible legal disputes. Find out what happens if an executor fails to complete estate administration duties in BC... 30 Jan
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Communication Breakdowns, Curated Content

Estate Administration Duties: The Cost of Executor Negligence in BC

This comprehensive guide explores probate requirements across Canada’s provinces and territories, highlighting the steps involved, costs, and unique regional considerations. 29 Jan
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Related Resources

Probate Requirements Across Different Canadian Provinces

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Recent:

With many estates being administered over extended periods —by older spouses, siblings, or peers— the risk that an executor becomes incapable is very real and foreseeable. Planning for incapacity at the drafting stage is key...

What Happens When An Estate Executor Becomes Incapable?

Navigating the legal maze of Canadian Estate Planning can be exceptionally daunting due to the recent enforcement of transparency mandates across all provinces. This article examines the structural steps required to successfully execute a family trust in Canada...

How To Set Up a Family Trust in Canada: 2026 Action Plan

Before you set up a living trust, make sure you’re positive that it’s the right tool for your particular situation. Learn more in this step-by-step guide to setting up a living trust in Canada…

How Do I Set Up a Living (Inter Vivos) Trust in Canada?

This article provides general information only. Estate administration rules and procedures vary across provinces and territories, and legal advice is recommended in most cases.

Estate Administration: Practical First Steps for Executors

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