Absence of a clear and well-structured will often leads to protracted and costly legal disputes, straining relationships. Take steps, now, to ensure your will is "contest-proof"... 13 Apr

Eliminating Ambiguity: Steps to Ensure Your Will is “Contest-Proof”

An understanding of the legal framework governing estate and trust distributions provides the necessary context for examining why fiduciaries may choose to postpone disbursements. 11 Apr

Frequently Asked Questions About Delayed Distributions

It seems that traditional approaches and societal norms are underpinning the practice of the daughter being given the caregiver role and the son looking after finances and property, even though their skills and abilities may not match those roles. 30 Mar

Designating POA Responsibilities: Is Gender Playing a Role?

Canada offers a range of financial supports for caregivers that can help with both day-to-day expenses and long-term planning. Knowing what’s available can help you decide what kind of support might make sense for you. 19 Feb

Financial Supports Available for Caregivers in Canada

Dealing with estate administration delays due to mismanagement or misconduct? Learn more about executor conflicts, how to prevent them, and what your rights are as a beneficiary... 18 Feb

Executor Conflicts: Common Estate Disputes in Ontario

It’s vital for every adult in Ontario to get their head around the fundamental distinction between a Power of Attorney and a Guardianship. These aren’t just two names for the same thing... 04 Feb

Power of Attorney vs Guardianship in Ontario: The Critical Difference

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

This article explains the legal framework for inheritances for minors in Ontario. It covers management options, practical considerations, and key steps for protecting a minor beneficiary's interests... 08 Jan

Understanding & Managing Inheritance for Minors in Ontario

Trust distributions fall into two categories, and the difference is significant. Mandatory distributions versus discretionary distributions: the difference the trust document makes... 10 Nov

Trust Distributions: Mandatory vs Discretionary

It is generally unreasonable to expect an executor to work for free, or for less than the standard rate, given the considerable amount of work involved. For potential executors, clarity about compensation helps them make informed decisions about accepting the role. 04 Nov

Is it Reasonable for an Executor to Expect Compensation?

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

Understanding the Basic Rights of Trust Beneficiaries