The Court of Appeal recently released a decision dismissing appeals against conviction of a former Toronto police officer who fabricated the last will and testament of Heinz Siegfried Sommerfeld to benefit the police officer. 15 Jul

Consequences of ‘Stealing’ an Estate: Ontario Fraudulent Will Case

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... 26 Jun

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... 21 Jun

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… 18 Jun

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. 12 Jun

Estate Administration: Practical First Steps for Executors

When New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed the Medical Aid in Dying Act into law on Feb. 6, 2026, she included an unusual provision: patients requesting medical aid in dying must make an audio or video recording of their oral request... 21 May

Medical Aid in Dying: New York State’s Unusual New Requirement

Discretionary trusts can be an effective way to provide for beneficiaries without granting them fixed entitlements. However, these structures can create uncertainty for beneficiaries... Understanding the legal framework is critical for both sides. 21 May

Ontario Guide to Discretionary Trusts and Beneficiary Rights

What happens when the domestic tax rules of two different countries look at the same person and both conclude that the individual is a tax resident? 12 May

Navigating Dual-Residency: Canada’s Tax Treaty Tie-Breakers

One widely shared social post says putting “everything you own” into a Trust could bypass probate, leaving more funds for your kids when passing on your estate. But that advice is far from universal. 12 May

Put “Everything in a Trust” to Bypass Probate: Is This Good Advice?

This "Estate Planning Documents Checklist" covers what your estate plan should include, and how to find out what you need in your state.  05 May

Estate Planning Documents Checklist: State-by-State

Only 6 US states currently impose an inheritance tax: Iowa, Kentucky, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. This "State Inheritance Tax Guide 2026" provides rate tables and answers to frequently asked questions. 01 May

Which US States Still Impose an Inheritance Tax in 2026?

For individuals with cross-border estates, careful planning is essential. For Canadians with connections to European Union member states, this area of law has grown considerably more important... 27 Apr

Canadians with European Assets: Whose Law Governs?