Common themes in inheritance disputes include challenges to a will's validity, unfair or unequal asset distribution, family dynamics and pre-existing tensions, lack of clear estate planning, and issues with executor misconduct or mismanagement.  21 Aug

Inheritance Disputes: Common Themes & Recent Cases (Ontario)

Ontario Court Ruling: Funds transferred to deceased's Daughter were "valid inter vivos gifts" and not subject to a resulting trust. 30 Jul

Court Rules in Favour of Daughter: the Validity of Inter Vivos Gifts

Learn how to handle an estate dispute under Canadian law. This guide will help you understand the grounds for disputing a will and its effect on the division of assets. 22 Jul

Canadian Guide to Understanding the Grounds for Disputing a Will

For families with a loved one receiving disability assistance, an inheritance can have unintended and damaging consequences. A well-intentioned gift can disrupt eligibility for essential government benefits, often outweighing any short-term financial gain. 25 Jun

Cautionary Tale: Estate Planning for a Loved One With a Disability

Lack of communication is a significant factor contributing to inheritance disputes, often leading to mistrust and misunderstandings among family members and beneficiaries. When executors or trustees fail to keep beneficiaries informed about the estate's administration, including asset valuation and distribution, it can fuel suspicion and lead to legal challenges.  18 Jun

Mistrust & Misunderstandings Lead to Costly Inheritance Disputes

Just about anything that a client says to their lawyer is protected by solicitor-client privilege. This is a cornerstone of our legal system and a fundamental right in Canada. In practice, however, exceptions to privilege are commonplace when the client is deceased. 18 Jun

How Privileged are Estate Planning Discussions with Your Lawyer?

Whilst there are some proposals for reform, the effects of a predatory marriage are wide ranging and very difficult to undo legally. It is therefore the best approach for a concerned family to keep in touch with their relative and to act swiftly where a predatory marriage is suspected... 16 Jun

Predatory Marriages: Is Law Reform Coming to the UK?

Understanding Undue Influence: Estate Law Canada 23 May

Understanding Undue Influence: Estate Law, Canada

Stan Lee, the iconic co-creator of Marvel superheroes, became center of a high-profile elder abuse lawsuit... 09 May

Elder Abuse Lawsuit Against Stan Lee’s Ex-Manager

The Estate Planning Risks of Predatory Marriages 10 Apr

The Estate Planning Risks of Predatory Marriages

Undue influence is a high legal threshold to meet. If you believe that your loved one has been subject to undue influence in drafting their Will, what can you do about it? 04 Apr

Undue Influence Concerns: Beware a Sudden Change of Heart

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