The rate of increase in estate disputes is climbing. If you are like most people, you haven’t anticipated these types of problems. As a result, you won’t develop self-defence strategies. Sure, you’re ready to object: “My family will never get nasty. They won’t argue over what they…
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The lawyer handling Emily’s case did not know what to say. He made his next mistake. “You still have to prove the other side is responsible and anything can go wrong in a trial. That’s how the legal system works. Some cases you win, some you lose,…
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“I’ll see you in court.” How terrifying are those words? At the start of a lawsuit, everything you see is coloured by your fear, anger or desire to crush your opponents. A lawsuit is a dangerous weapon which you must know how to use, as well as…
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I am a lawyer with thirty years plus of estate experience. Despite what you may believe, not all lawyers have DNA to know what it takes to win your case in mediation. Lawyers often learn what works by “trial and error” for each client. In one year…
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Key 7: Take Action Now John and Jillian, both in their 30s, were going on vacation. They were leaving behind Heather, their five-year old daughter, for the first time. Suddenly they realized that they had no will, guardian, or trust set up for their daughter. They needed…
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Most lawyers will explain to Alex, Jeremy’s father, why his son must wait in reception. Alex’s lawyer must meet with Alex alone so all information remains confidential. Alex must be free to ask questions about his intentions and options without anyone else in the room. The lawyer…
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“It’s important.” Jeremy said to his boss. “I need to take the afternoon off to take my 83-year-old father to see a lawyer to make his will.” When you take a person to a lawyer’s office, you need to understand the legal protocol. Even if you are…
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In its Executive Summary, the Canadian Task Force on Literacy states, “…financial literacy is an essential skill acquired through lifelong learning…” EXECUTIVE SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS Canadians and Their Money Building a brighter financial future Part of that requires everyone to have some estate literacy. This creates those…
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This is one of the first decisions you get to make as an executor. Choose wisely – changing lawyers is time-consuming and expensive. After you do your preliminary research, interview prospective candidates. Look for referrals and search law firm websites. Note: Some estate problems will call for…
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Should YOU, as an executor, attempt to probate a will by yourself? Here’s the tale of Jennifer to teach you. In her job with an insurance company, Jennifer filled out forms all day. She thought it would not be much different filling out court forms. Besides, she’d…
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