An estate trustee is required to act impartially between all the beneficiaries and to not favor one or more beneficiaries over others. This is colloquially described as the duty to ‘maintain an even hand’. 19 Sep

Treating Beneficiaries Equally: The “Even-Hand Rule”

Neutral Ground in Family Storms: How the appointment of a professional estate executor can help families navigate turbulent waters. 12 Sep

Reasons for Appointing a Neutral Professional in The Role of Executor

As an executor, it is important to be aware that simply being in a position where your interests appear to conflict with those of the beneficiaries may be enough for a court to remove you as an executor. 08 Sep

Examples of Executor-Beneficiary Conflict of Interest

Incapacity can happen suddenly and without warning, but the good news is that it’s entirely possible to plan ahead. By putting the right legal protections in place, you’re not only preserving your dignity and autonomy—you’re also giving your loved ones the gift of clarity and guidance during uncertain times. 04 Sep

Planning Ahead for Incapacity and Medical Emergencies

02 Sep

Siblings Inheritance Laws: Intestacy Rules and Property Rights

A critical part of advance care planning is choosing someone who will represent you in case you can’t represent yourself. This article provides an introduction to healthcare proxies, the process of selecting one, and resources for getting started. 25 Aug

Choosing a Healthcare Proxy: Who Will Speak for You?

The term "executor" itself is used across many legal systems and cultures. Other terms like "estate trustee" and "estate representative" are also used, but the core function remains the same: managing the estate according to the will. 14 Aug

Estate Executor: Role —by any other name— Remains the Same

An executor has both authority and legal duty. With that comes potential risk. Acting without proper guidance can expose you to delays, disputes, or even personal liability. This article highlights the top five executor missteps and how to steer clear of them... 03 Aug

Top 5 Mistakes Executors Make & How To Avoid Them: Ontario

Critically acclaimed drama series "Six Feet Under" provides a cautionary tale about the pitfalls of neglecting succession planning in a family business.  24 Jul

Family Business Succession Cautionary Tale: “Six Feet Under”

What is a Trust and Estate Planning Practitioner (TEP)? 22 Jul

What is a Trust and Estate Planning Practitioner (TEP)?

Recent Ontario Court of Appeal ruling reaffirms the modern cost approach in estate litigation: trustees who fail in their duties may not only be removed but may also bear the personal financial burden of their choices. 22 Jul

Personal Liability for Costs Due to Breach of Fiduciary Duty: Ontario

In Ontario, the term "executor" is now often replaced with "estate trustee" to more accurately reflect the fiduciary role they play in managing an estate. This change is not Canada-wide, but specific to Ontario's legal terminology.  21 Jul

Executor vs. Estate Trustee: Ontario Specific Legal Terminology