Be prepared to be vulnerable. Start by acknowledging it's a challenging topic and ensure everyone is comfortable and open to the discussion. 07 May

How to Discuss Long-Term Care Planning with Your Family

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

How to Tactfully Discuss Your Estate Plan with Your Family

Central to this journey is the unwavering commitment to transparent communication... Although rife with complexity, estate administration can be navigated with sagacity and a judicious approach. 10 Apr

Unwavering Commitment to Transparent Communication

It is best to customize a will or trust to your specific situation. Sometimes you want more say in how or when your beneficiaries will acquire and use your assets. For this reason, several clauses are commonly included in wills or trusts... 02 Apr

Types of Clauses Commonly Included in Wills or Trusts

Estate disputes can tear families apart and leave valuable assets in limbo. When tensions rise and estate administration becomes impossible, there is a powerful legal solution that many people do not know about: an Estate Trustee During Litigation (ETDL). 25 Mar

“Estate Trustee During Litigation” (ETDL): Benefits & FAQs

Divorce significantly impacts estate plans, potentially invalidating provisions naming a former spouse as a beneficiary or executor, so a review and update are crucial.  13 Mar

The Significant Impact of Divorce on Your Estate Plans

Although still commonly used, in Ontario the term "probate" stopped being officially used on April 1, 1995 (no joke…). What is the process to obtain a Certificate of Appointment, with or without a will? This article answers some of the most common questions... 11 Mar

Frequently Asked Questions About Certificates of Appointment

Sometimes, an estate’s debts and liabilities are greater than its assets. In Canada, an insolvent estate can only be assigned into bankruptcy with the court's permission. This is specifically outlined in Section 49(1) of the Bankruptcy and Insolvency Act (BIA). 10 Mar

Assigning an Involvent Estate into Bankruptcy: Canada

Even the most well-meaning executors may encounter unforeseen difficulties during the estate administration process. Errors in estate administration can make an otherwise simple procedure more difficult. Learn more about these common mistakes and how to avoid them... 24 Feb

Estate Administration in Ontario: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Court rules against woman who sought to have $1.8-million inheritance placed in fully discretionary trust to avoid losing disability benefits... 12 Feb

B.C. Court Rules Against Woman Seeking to Impose Henson Trust

When Inheritance Divides: The Strain of Sibling Disputes Over Estate Debts 31 Jan

The Strain of Sibling Disputes Over Estate Debts: a Cautionary Tale

Many attorneys recommend trusts to their clients, but not everyone needs a trust. Here are some frequently asked questions about trusts, as well as answers to help you decide if a trust might be useful in your situation. 24 Jan

Frequently Asked Questions: Understanding Trusts