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... 26 Aug

What Happens When a Will is Missing an Important Clause?

In many cases, an executor’s first instinct is not to call a lawyer. It is to ask Google. The problem? Google can provide thousands of answers, many of which are incomplete, inaccurate, or based on another jurisdiction. Executors need practical guidance tailored to the particular estate they are administering. 21 Aug

Cautionary Guidance for Executors: Google at Your Own Risk!

Holograph wills and codicils are often viewed as a simple and inexpensive way to record testamentary wishes. Ironically, the very simplicity that makes holograph codicils attractive can also make them extraordinarily vulnerable... 14 Aug

Ontario Case Study: The Hidden Risks of a DIY Codicil

A recent decision from the BC Court of Appeal serves as an important reminder that before starting litigation, executors must consider not only whether the claim can be brought, but whether bringing it is truly in the best interests of the estate. 14 Aug

Estate Litigation Can Have Costly Consequences for Executors

A handshake promise to leave the family farm can legally override a written will in New South Wales. The legal mechanism is equitable estoppel, and courts have enforced it in farm succession disputes where the evidence is strong enough. 26 Jul

NSW Inheritance Law: Can a Verbal Promise Override a Will?

Public Expenditure Minister Jack Chambers has said the Government will consider changes to inheritance tax thresholds and rates in Budget 2027, acknowledging a 'significant tax burden' on those who worked hard in Ireland for decades... 25 Jul

Ireland Inheritance Tax: Proposed Overhaul in Budget 2027

An executor must administer the estate with diligence, respond to reasonable inquiries from beneficiaries, and take the Court process seriously. Where those duties are not met, the Court has shown that it is prepared to order costs personally... 24 Jul

What Happens When An Executor ‘Ghosts’ The Estate?

With the right strategies, you can avoid making financial mistakes and instead ensure most of what you want to leave behind lands in the correct hands... 23 Jul

End-of-Life Tax Strategies: Leaving More For Your Heirs

Inheritance law looks like a single subject from the outside, but every country actually answers several separate questions differently. This comprehensive guide covers succession and wills law for specific countries in detail. 23 Jul

Comprehensive Guide to Inheritance Law by Country

23 Jul

New US Tax Laws That Could Impact What Your Heirs Receive

Choosing an executor is one of the most consequential decisions in estate planning. Conflicts of interest can lead to family disputes, high legal costs, and can jeopardize proper estate administration. 22 Jul

What Constitutes Executor Conflicts of Interest in Ontario?

What are you actually entitled to know as an estate beneficiary? And if you are the executor, what do you actually have to share? Here is how it works in British Columbia... 21 Jul

Beneficiary Rights in BC: What Executors Need to Know