This cautionary tale serves as a reminder of how important it is to carefully plan, draft, and update your Will with the help of an experienced advisor. Doing so can prevent misunderstandings and disputes, and ensure that your wishes are truly fulfilled. 28 Apr

Will Interpretation: Alberta Court Decision Serves as Cautionary Tale

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

Navigating the complexities of taxes after death can be daunting, but it’s crucial for ensuring that your estate is managed effectively and your beneficiaries are protected. 12 Apr

Navigating the Complexities of Taxes after Death in Canada

Real-life family drama surrounding media mogul Rupert Murdoch offers valuable succession lessons for business owners... 03 Apr

Murdoch Family Drama Offers Valuable Succession Lessons

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

With proper planning and guidance, estate matters don’t have to be stressful. This post will walk you through everything you need to create a solid estate plan in Ontario. 02 Apr

Estate Planning Ontario: A Simple Guide to Getting It Right

Recent court ruling underscores a fundamental lesson for charities involved in property or trust matters: clear, formal documentation is essential. Without a properly executed declaration of trust, even well-intentioned trust arrangements can fall short in court. 27 Mar

The Case of The Property Trust: a Cautionary Tale for Charities

When it comes to preparing for the future, understanding the difference between estate planning and a will is crucial. While both play a significant role in managing your assets after your passing, they serve different purposes and offer unique benefits. 25 Mar

Comprehensive Guide to Estate Planning Terms

A contingent beneficiary is a backup beneficiary who inherits assets if the primary beneficiary is unable to, for example, if they predecease you or are unable to accept the inheritance. You likely need a contingent beneficiary to ensure your assets are distributed as intended, even if your primary beneficiary can't receive them.  19 Mar

What is a Contingent (or Secondary) Beneficiary?

Sudden wealth is often seen as a dream come true. But the reality is far more complex— What losing $14 Million taught estate planning attorney, Paul Deloughery, about sudden wealth and inheritance... 14 Mar

$14 Million Lesson: The Hidden Dangers of Sudden Wealth

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

For a loved one struggling with an addiction, a direct inheritance could be dangerous. However, disinheriting an addicted adult child is NOT the only option. Thankfully, there is an alternative estate planning solution available. 12 Mar

Before You Disinherit a Loved One Struggling with Addiction…