Category: Probate

What to Expect When You Probate Ontario Estates – Part 2

This is a continuation from Part 1, which you can read here. Estate Court Probate Process The estate court staff review estate court applications. They check for issues and can request extra materials. If mistakes or incomplete information are filed, the process can be delayed. Original documents may…
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What to Expect When You Probate Ontario Estates – Part 1

This post explains part of the probate estate process in Ontario. It does not explain your legal duties if you are an estate personal representative, executor or estate trustee. You should obtain legal advice before you act as an executor or an estate trustee. The sooner you…
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Dying Without a Will in Ontario Is Dangerous to Your Wealth

Laura was in a panic after her sister, Sue, died without a will. She called me because she needed to arrange Sue’s funeral. Laura lived outside of Ontario and planned to take a week off work. “I have to handle my late sister Sue’s estate. I hope…
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American Bar Association’s Probate Magazine Profiles Lawyer Edward Olkovich

Edward F. Olkovich was featured in Probate & Property magazine. His bio appears in the 2017 November-December issue of the magazine, a publication of the Real Property, Trust and Estate Law Section of the American Bar Association. Read Ed’s profile as it appears in the issue. …
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Stop Estate Beneficiary Costly Mistakes

Jonathan called me because his uncle Peter died. “What rights do I have as a beneficiary under Peter’s will? When do beneficiaries need to get legal advice?” “This is a common question when someone dies,” I said. “Your legal rights depend on if you are named in…
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Who Cares About Fiduciary Duties and Trust?

Are you an estate beneficiary or expect to become one? Then you have to trust executors to deliver your inheritance. And executors, you can’t do your job without understanding your fiduciary duties. Are you waiting to inherit or are you an executor? Here’s what you need to…
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Ontario Executors Require Answers to Questions: What assets are included for probate purposes?

What assets are included for probate purposes? Not all assets must go through probate. If you are married and acting as executor for your spouse, you will be relieved to know this. Certain assets are not included in the probate process: 1. Jointly owned assets like joint…
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Ontario Executors Require Answers to Questions: What is involved when you probate an estate?

What is involved when you probate an estate? Probate is a legal process that certifies who is entitled to control the estate as executor. It also decides who shares in the estate (beneficiaries). Technically, a will is probated and an estate is administered. Most people informally refer…
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Do You Need to Probate a Will for Joint Assets?

I know people are paranoid about probate. If I mention the word probate, some people panic. So let’s have some calm for a minute. I’ll explain some new twists on the subject to save you worry and money. I had an email exchange with Ben, an accountant….
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2015 Ontario Probate Tax Rules on Real Estate

Are you a new Ontario estate trustee appointed after January 1st, 2015? Then be prepared for surprises and new probate dangers. You must comply with new estate tax regulations. I’ll explain the new dangers and penalties you face as executor. I’ll simplify the rules to help you…
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“I want to thank Ed and his firm for getting me through a very difficult time. He was recommended to me by another lawyer and I am grateful for that recommendation. Ed kept me grounded, listened to me, counseled me and supported me. I do so appreciate that. And he is worth every penny. Thank you!” - Claudia R, Toronto

“Thank you for your professional advice and lawyering while I was planning my will, all accompanied with your patience and a sense of humour.” - Valerie G, Toronto

“Ed is a "straight shooter" who tells it like it is and helps you make the best possible decisions in your circumstances. I've personally seen the "magic" he can work in an estate and recommend him without reservation to anyone who wants an iron clad will or estate advice and management that saves money, frayed nerves and friendships.” - Jim R, Burlington

I have used Edward Olkovich for my own Will and I was the executor of my Brother-in-law’s will. My brother-in-law had a terminal illness and Edward had us devise his Will to minimize taxes and problems. Ed is located locally @ Jane and Bloor. He was very knowledgeable, friendly and thorough and has written many books on the subject. - Belinda M, Toronto

Ed is a thorough, responsive estates lawyer who I would recommend to anyone when needing a will or dealing with estate issues. - Eva S, Toronto

Dear Ed and “Team Olkovich” “Thank you for your knowledge, expertise and hard work to make our executor duties (almost) stress-free. Will miss the laughs and stories you tell so well. All our appreciation always!” - Pat, Dave & John, Toronto

Dear Ed, Thank you for all your wisdom and kindness throughout the process of settling Ann’s Estate. - Cheryl, Toronto

“The easiest professional I had to deal with to settle my parents’ needs was Ed. I told him what we needed. He was gracious with his advice and help - without delaying matters.” - Iain N., Toronto

“Magic! The guy knows magic!” - Steve G., Toronto

“In the land of estate law, Ed is King.” - Cheryl W., Toronto

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