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  • Legacy Lexicon
This article explains exactly what a letter of wishes is, why you need one, what to include, and how to write one that truly reflects your intentions. 04 Nov
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Related Resources

How & Why To Write a Letter of Wishes: UK Guide

A multijurisdictional approach uses one document, whereas a cross-jurisdictional approach uses multiple, separate documents. Both require specialized legal advice to navigate differences in foreign laws, such as forced heirship rules, and to ensure wishes are carried out effectively.  03 Nov
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Generated Content, Legacy Lexicon

Multi-Jurisdictional vs Cross-Jurisdictional Estate Planning

Unfortunately, disputes over Wills are on the rise in the UK... This reflects not only changing family structures but also shifting expectations around inheritance. 30 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Family Disputes

Family Dynamics & Inheritance: Managing Expectations

Several legitimate strategies exist for minimizing or avoiding capital gains tax on inherited property in Canada. Understanding these options helps preserve family wealth across generations. 29 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Avoid Capital Gains Tax on Inherited Property in Canada?

An estate tax is levied on the deceased's estate, while an inheritance tax is paid by heirs subject to the tax (spouses are usually exempt). Over a dozen states currently impose estate or inheritance taxes. Find out where you’ll have to pay... 24 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Tax-Smart Strategies

2025 Update: States with Scary Estate & Inheritance Taxes

Trustees are legally obligated to act in the best interest of the beneficiaries. Aligning the trustee’s responsibilities with the best interests of the beneficiaries is a core principle of trust law. 21 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Beneficiary Rights, Curated Content

Understanding the Basic Rights of Trust Beneficiaries

To determine whether the photocopy could be admitted, the Ontario Superior Court of Justice applied the "four-part legal test for admitting a lost will" and found that all four criteria were satisfied... 20 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Communication Breakdowns, Curated Content

Ontario Court Ruling: Photocopy of Lost Will Deemed Admissible

This guide, by Ontario Wealth Strategy Experts, covers several strategies that can help manage potential tax exposure. Learn how Ontario's tax-on-death rules fit into your planning, and what steps you can take now to make sure your heirs keep more of what you've built. 15 Oct
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Tax-Smart Strategies

Strategies for Managing Potential Tax Exposure in Ontario

Relocating to a new province or country can have significant legal implications for your estate plan. This article explores when and why you may need to update your will after a move, along with key considerations for cross-jurisdictional estate planning. 26 Sep
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

Can Moving Affect the Validity & Effectiveness of Your Will?

Digital assets pose unique challenges for Ontario estate planning, particularly when they are stored or governed outside the province. Conflicting laws, restrictive terms of service, and international privacy regulations can complicate access and delay administration. 25 Sep
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Digital Distress

Digital Assets: Unique Challenges & Jurisdictional Conflicts

Navigating international probate involves complex laws, tax issues, and cross-border estate challenges. Here is what families and heirs need to know... 23 Sep
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About International Probate

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
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Related Resources

Examples of Executor-Beneficiary Conflict of Interest

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Recent:

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.

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

Choosing the right estate trustee —at the planning stage— can be one of the most important decisions a testator makes. This case serves as a cautionary tale of what can happen when an estate trustee fails to appreciate the seriousness of the role...

Cautionary Tale: When Poor Administration Comes at a Cost

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

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