Family inheritance disputes carry the risk of creating permanent rifts among relatives. With timely legal intervention, family conflicts over inheritance can be effectively managed and resolved without causing irreparable damage to relationships. 11 Mar

Resolving Family Inheritance Disputes: Tips & Guidance

"Some businesses remain in the family. Others do not. Business owners might muse about succession within the family unit. However, musings do not always give rise to enforceable promises." 04 Mar

Succession Planning for a Family Business Can Be Tricky

A recent decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice provides a stark reminder that unsuccessful litigants—particularly those who advance self-interested claims—may be ordered to pay millions of dollars in costs personally. 27 Feb

Ontario Beneficiary Held Personally Liable for Legal Costs

Few narrative devices expose human venality with the precision of inheritance theft. This collection of ten films rigorously examines the subgenre to explore the psychological and legal intricacies of usurped fortunes. 04 Feb

Estate Disputes & Inheritance Theft Themes Explored in 10 Films

Administering an estate can be challenging at the best of times. But what happens if a beneficiary simply refuses to engage, leaving the estate stuck for years? 27 Jan

An Estate Stuck in Limbo: Beneficiary Refuses to Engage

When a beneficiary refuses to cooperate during estate administration, it can delay the entire process and create significant problems for everyone involved. 22 Jan

Uncooperative Beneficiaries: Impact on Estate Administration

While informal verbal agreements may seem convenient and cost-effective at the time they are made, they all-too-frequently lead to disputes down the road. 21 Jan

Informal Verbal Agreements Frequently Lead to Estate Disputes

If you are considering when —or if— you can challenge a will in Ontario, it is important to understand that not every disagreement leads to a successful claim. Ontario courts respect testamentary freedom... 10 Jan

When Can You Challenge a Will in Ontario?

Undue influence is not mere persuasion or advice. It requires coercive elements that override the testator’s free will. Courts look for a combination of susceptibility, opportunity, and improper pressure that causes the vulnerable person to act contrary to their true wishes. 27 Nov

Proving or Disproving “Undue Influence” in Court

Can concerned parties use outdated documents as a justification to contest a will? Egregious oversights could raise questions. If the testator failed to update their will for decades, there could be questions about its validity. 16 Nov

Is an Outdated Will Justification for Probate Litigation?

05 Nov

Understanding the Rights of Beneficiaries in Estate Litigation

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

Family Dynamics & Inheritance: Managing Expectations