Could this be you? Everything in your life is going along smoothly. Then, suddenly, it happens; things change. It could be a catastrophic illness, accident or age-related injury. Don’t assume your family, including your spouse or adult child, can automatically act as your substitute decision maker. Even…
Read full article
What does it cost to replace an estate executor? The costs are horrendous. Make sure you name a backup executor in your will. To remove an executor, you require a court order. Courts must agree there are grounds for removal. Hopefully you will name an alternative executor…
Read full article
Courts must remove estate executors by court order. A decision in 2024 by Justice B.A. MacFarlane (Deziel v. Deziel, 2024 ONSC 5279) outlined these principles for successful removal. [80] The Ontario Court of Appeal in the case of Chambers Estate v. Chambers confirmed that “the court should…
Read full article
As an executor/estate trustee in Ontario, you face many challenges. Here are some tips to help you. As a fiduciary, you have obligations to creditors and beneficiaries alike. You must act as a neutral even if you are beneficiary yourself. That means you cannot give yourself priority…
Read full article
Wills need to be updated to protect your loved ones. Here are some events that require you to review and possibly update your will. If you wish at any time to revoke or alter your will, consult a lawyer. Legal formalities must be observed, otherwise your wishes…
Read full article
I am posting the slides from my estate planning presentation entitled, The Secrets of Estate Planning. This was held on December 4th, 2024 for St. Michael’s College School – Alumni Association. View slides here. Remember, this information is not legal advice. Always consult a lawyer to confirm…
Read full article
Find out with FP Answers here. Need answers? Call my office today or book a meeting. Estate law is all I do. Ed Olkovich
Do-it-yourself and online wills are all the rage again. But do you know that they can lead to estate problems? Most people do not know or understand property law, family, estate and tax laws to prepare wills that don’t create complications or legal concerns. If what you…
Read full article
If you are stuck or don’t know where to begin as an Ontario estate executor, read this post. No single roadmap works for every estate journey. Each estate, large or small, has different assets, beneficiaries and tax issues. These variables create their own list of dos and…
Read full article
Read Part 1 of this post, The Hidden Dangers of Passing Without a Will in Ontario. Here’s what happens in Ontario if you do not make a will. Intestate Rules Apply You do not get to choose who is your estate trustee without a will. This person…
Read full article
416 769 - 9800