While not intended to be comprehensive in nature, this guide lays out a basic summary of what is involved and some things to keep in mind if you are involved in settling a loved one’s estate. 29 Aug

Basic Guide to The Probate Court Process in Ontario

After deliberating for almost one hour, jurors found that a handwritten will, discovered under a sofa cushion by Franklin’s niece after the singer’s death, was signed by the music legend in 2014 and does show her intent. 11 Jul

Jury Reaches Verdict in Battle over Aretha Franklin’s Estate

Aretha Franklin’s Handwritten Last Wishes: a Tale of Two Wills 06 Jul

Aretha Franklin’s Handwritten Last Wishes: a Tale of Two Wills

Probate Nightmares: The Dangers of Properties Taken Out of Trust | Property Pitfalls | Real Estate | Estates Gone Wrong 30 May

Probate Nightmares: The Dangers of Properties Taken Out of Trust

A will in terrorem clause, also known as a "No-Contest" clause, is a legal provision that can be included in a will to discourage beneficiaries from challenging its validity. This clause disinherits any beneficiary who contests the will, which means they will not receive any inheritance. 10 May

What is an “In Terrorem Clause” and How Does it Work?

Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential and renowned artists of the 20th century, left a lasting legacy through his groundbreaking artwork. However, the probate process that followed his death in 1973 was anything but straightforward. 11 Apr

From Canvas to Courtroom: The Legal Battle Over Picasso’s Estate

The Top 10 Estate Battles Of All Time | Curated Content | Celebrity Estates | Inheritance Horror Stories | Estates Gone Wrong 01 Apr

Probate Disputes: The Top 10 Estate Battles Of All Time

Just because the law allows for a testator to hand-write their own will does not make it a good idea, as a recent court decision shows. Even a harmonious family is likely to end up in court, seeking confirmation that the handwritten document was indeed a valid Holograph Will.  30 Mar

Handwritten Will Declared Invalid by Ontario Judge

Individuals who are making plans related to end-of-life decisions, providing assistance to adults or minors in need of care, or making other life changes may need to complete and file a number of estate planning or probate forms in court. Some of the most common areas in which people may seek out forms of this nature include those related to advance directives, guardianships, and name changes. 30 Mar

Estate Planning & Probate Legal Forms: 50-State Resources

Often you hear that you should review your will or trust to make sure it keeps up with changes in your life and still meets your needs. The tragic death of Philip Seymour Hoffman, whose will became public due to the probate proceeding, brought some of these issues into the public eye. 21 Mar

Unintended Consequences: Philip Seymour Hoffman’s Estate

Robin Williams' family, though provided for in his will, spent years after his passing in court battling over items, budgets and Knick knacks because the language in the beloved comedian's will was non-specific and overly vague. 15 Mar

Cautionary Tale: Overly Vague Language in Robin Williams Will

Estate Planning: 6 Big Mistakes You Might Be Making | Curated Content | Common Mistakes | Estates Gone Wrong 23 Feb

Estate Planning: 6 Big Mistakes You Might Be Making