A separate situs will is a will that complies with the laws of a specific jurisdiction ("situs") where you own property. It is a strategy to manage multi-jurisdictional assets and can help reduce probate fees and other administrative burdens... 12 Aug

Estate Planning Terminology: Separate “Situs” Wills

Spendthrift trusts help ensure that beneficiaries can’t squander their inheritance. They can also serve to protect assets from creditors. Rather than allowing the beneficiary to receive a lump sum, the trustee releases the money incrementally. 07 Aug

Spendthrift Trusts: What Are They and How Do They Work?

A Cautionary Tale in Will Drafting and Limitation Periods... When Does the Clock Start Ticking? 28 Jul

A Cautionary Tale in Will Drafting and Limitation Periods

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

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

Many people think all handwritten wills are holographic wills. This is not correct. This guide breaks down the difference between holographic and handwritten wills, how they work, when they’re appropriate, and their legal requirements in Canada... 22 Jul

Difference Between Holographic & Handwritten Wills in Canada

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

To file a dependant support claim against an estate, you must file a Notice of Application with the court and provide supporting evidence in an affidavit, typically within six months of the estate trustee being appointed.  15 Jul

How to File a Dependant Support Claim Against an Estate

Inheritance Disputes: What is 'Scorched Earth' Litigation? 10 Jul

Inheritance Disputes: What is ‘Scorched Earth’ Litigation?

End-of-Life Planning vs Estate Planning: What's the Difference? 27 Jun

End-of-Life Planning vs. Estate Planning: What’s the Difference?

24 Jun

Ontario Law: What is an Absolute Discretionary or a “Henson Trust”?

While both succession planning and estate planning involve planning for the future, they are distinct processes with different objectives. Succession planning is about the future of the business, while estate planning is about the future of the individual and their assets. 23 Jun

Preparing for the Future: Succession vs Estate Planning

Using the correct terms is critical in wills, trusts, and other legal documents because these words have significant implications. The wrong word can lead the probate Court to incorrectly interpret your documents and therefore cause an unintended result. 20 Jun

Commonly Confused Legal Terms for Describing Your Loved Ones