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  • Legacy Lexicon
The Law Commission recognises that we need a legal framework that reflects modern life— where people live longer, face complex health issues, and increasingly rely on digital tools. This article outlines key areas of reform and the impact they may have. 19 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Law Reform

Modernising the Law of Wills: Law Commission Report 2025 (UK)

If you’ve been named a beneficiary of an estate, it’s essential to understand an executor’s powers and limitations. Knowing what an executor can and cannot do will help you identify potential misconduct and protect your inheritance. 13 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Beneficiary Rights, Curated Content

Every Beneficiary Should Know What an Executor Can and Cannot Do

Passing the torch while preserving your family’s success— Succession planning is a critical process that safeguards the longevity of family-owned businesses. Here are 6 tips to help ensure a seamless transition... 13 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Succession Lessons

Passing the Torch: Succession Planning for Your Family Business

Give Yourself Permission to Grieve: Managing the psychological aspects of an inheritance ultimately determines whether the windfall becomes a lasting positive influence or a temporary financial event... 08 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Life Events

The Psychology of an Inheritance Windfall: Strategic Approaches

Without a plan in place, assets like retirement savings, real estate, or other investments may need to be liquidated to cover the costs. This is why incorporating long-term care strategies into estate planning is essential. 08 May
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Long-Term Care Crisis

Planning for Long-Term Care Costs without Draining Your Estate

The Finality of Probate: Limits on Subsequent Proceedings 29 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Family Disputes

The Finality of Probate: Limits on Subsequent Proceedings

This cautionary tale serves as a reminder of how important it is to carefully plan, draft, and update your Will with the help of an experienced advisor. Doing so can prevent misunderstandings and disputes, and ensure that your wishes are truly fulfilled. 28 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Communication Breakdowns, Curated Content

Will Interpretation: Alberta Court Decision Serves as Cautionary Tale

Lawyers Alison and Jillian Barrett, from Maurice Blackburn, tackle problems everyday Aussies face. In this article, they address the following question– posed by a woman who 'isn't happy with her inheritance'. 25 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Charitable Misgivings, Curated Content

Mum’s $20k Inheritance Gift to Charity ‘Upsets’ Daughter: Australia

Discussing your estate plan with your family may feel uncomfortable, but avoiding the conversation can create unnecessary confusion and conflict. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures your loved ones understand your intentions. 24 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Communication Breakdowns, Curated Content

How to Tactfully Discuss Your Estate Plan with Your Family

Groundbreaking Estate Decisions in 2024 & 2025 23 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Family Disputes

Groundbreaking Estate Litigation Decisions

If you're inheriting assets, understanding inheritance tax is crucial to avoid unexpected tax bills. This article details everything you need to know—what it is, which states have it, and how you can minimize its impact. 23 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Tax-Smart Strategies

Understanding & Minimizing State Inheritance Tax Obligations

While a verbal promise generally won’t override a written will, there are a few specific situations where such promises could potentially carry legal weight... 23 Apr
  • by Estates Gone Wrong
  • Curated Content, Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Verbal Promise Override a Written Will?

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Topics:

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Recent:

Long-Term Care (LTC) is expensive, unpredictable and often prolonged. The projected “great wealth transfer” may therefore become far more concentrated among families who are wealthy enough to absorb years of care costs without exhausting their assets.

US Long-Term Care Costs ‘Eating into’ Family Wealth

Estate trustees (Executors) have a duty to keep accurate records of estate assets and transactions throughout their administration and to account to beneficiaries at appropriate intervals.

Keeping Meticulous Records: Practical Tips for Executors

Have Canadian boomers saved enough for retirement? It doesn't seem like it... And the numbers suggest this isn’t just a handful of unlucky families. It’s a structural problem with how an entire generation approached retirement.

Why Canadian Kids Are Bailing Out Boomer Parents

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.

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

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