Ensure Your Loved One’s Security with Professional Wills

What happens when you fail to make a will?

Ontario judges have limited discretion to decide who handles your estate when you do not bother to make your will.

If there is no will, an intestacy is created. That’s when the government makes a will for you. But don’t worry, the government will still collect all the taxes it can. The government determines how your property, money, and stuff is distributed.

Usually, relatives must come forward and hire lawyers. I know that this may sound distasteful. It does not matter if you have never met your next of kin or how distant these blood relatives are. They can inherit your entire estate if you do not make a will.

Without Wills You Can’t Control Your Money/Stuff

The government can change intestate rules at any time. Your choice of estate trustee or beneficiaries may not match the government’s. Government rules are not flexible. They decide the outright distribution to beneficiaries even if they cannot manage money or any inheritance.

Using trusts in a will can manage inheritances for beneficiaries. But you need to protect loved ones by preparing your will.

Having a professionally prepared will allows you to benefit because you:

a) Choose who controls your estate and how your loves ones benefit;

b) Receive information to reduce income taxes and Ontario’s provincial Estate Administration Tax (EAT);

c) Take tax advantage of donating to charities and causes that you support.

What About Trusts for Fido or Ginger?

These best friends may need trusts in your will.

You also need information about your legal and moral duties towards your dependants. Only lawyers can guide you in making sure you satisfy your legal and moral obligations.

Invest in an Experienced Will Lawyer

Hire a lawyer who does not dabble in making wills.

Make sure you have a current will. If you need a will or powers of attorney, set up an initial meeting to discuss your options. You’ll also receive a copy of my book, Estate to the Heart: How to Plan Wills and Estates for Your Loved Ones.

As a Certified Specialist, estate law is all I do.