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

As an executor, it is important to be aware that simply being in a position where your interests appear to conflict with those of the beneficiaries may be enough for a court to remove you as an executor. 08 Sep

Examples of Executor-Beneficiary Conflict of Interest

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

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

Recent Ontario Court of Appeal ruling reaffirms the modern cost approach in estate litigation: trustees who fail in their duties may not only be removed but may also bear the personal financial burden of their choices. 22 Jul

Personal Liability for Costs Due to Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Ontario

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

Acting as an Estate Trustee can be challenging. It is important to appoint an individual who is responsible and reliable to fulfil this role as they have a fiduciary responsibility to the beneficiaries. 18 Jul

What is an Estate Trustee? What are their Responsibilities?

The fight over Jimmy Buffett’s fortune reveals pitfalls for enterprising families— Appointing multiple trustees to oversee an estate comes with risks. All is not well in Margaritaville... 16 Jul

Multiple Trustees in Margaritaville: Jimmy Buffett’s Estate

Estate Administration: The Biggest Mistakes Executors Make 04 Jul

Biggest Mistakes Executors Make During Estate Administration

When a Will contains vague, contradictory, or incomplete instructions, it doesn’t just create paperwork headaches— it can ignite family disputes that last for years. 11 Jun

What Really Happens When Wills Aren’t Clear?

Fiduciary Duty: Definition & Different Types Explained 25 May

Fiduciary Duty: Definition & Different Types Explained