Whether you own a cottage, a family home, or any other high-value asset, working with an experienced estate lawyer to craft clear, specific, and regularly updated instructions is not just good practice — it is essential. 22 Mar

Why Cottage Estates Are a Breeding Ground for Family Conflict

It’s a common misconception that debt disappears when someone dies — but this isn’t usually the case, especially when inheriting a house with debt. While you may not be personally responsible for a decedent’s loans, the debt must still be addressed, or the house risks foreclosure. 11 Mar

Inheriting a House with Debt: Understanding Your Options

Several life events stand out as clear signals that financial guidance should move to the top of the to-do list... Don’t wait until things feel complicated. 08 Mar

Life Events That Should Trigger a Call for Financial Guidance

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

Selling or transferring an inherited cottage in Canada often triggers capital gains tax, even though Canada does not have an inheritance tax. If you are administering an estate or planning a future transfer, early tax clarity can prevent costly mistakes later. 12 Jan

Selling or Transferring an Inherited Cottage in Canada

Ever thought about gifting a property to your children? I recently had this very discussion with my own aging parents. This resulted in some important discussions about our family home, their goals and consideration for the tax outcomes of any decisions made... 04 Dec

Transferring the Family Home: Considerations for Canadians

Transferring property to heirs "inter vivos" offers emotional benefits and potential probate fee reduction, but can trigger an immediate capital gains tax liability and means a loss of control and potential exposure to your heir's creditors.  02 Dec

Gifting Property to Your Heirs “Inter Vivos”: Pros and Cons

Whether driven by retirement, a desire for simplicity, or changing health needs, the act of downsizing is a profound life event. It requires a conscious and often difficult act of letting go, confronting the unspoken weight of what we choose to leave behind. 27 Oct

Downsizing Guide: Mastering The Difficult Act of Letting Go

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

2025 Update: States with Scary Estate & Inheritance Taxes

Anyone with substantial assets and investments should talk to their children or heirs about their financial situation and seek advice to try and lessen their final tax bill... 26 Sep

Grieving Ontario Family Shocked By Parents’ Final Tax Bill

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

Can Moving Affect the Validity & Effectiveness of Your Will?

Navigating international probate involves complex laws, tax issues, and cross-border estate challenges. Here is what families and heirs need to know... 23 Sep

Frequently Asked Questions About International Probate