Thanksgiving 2020 is a time for gratitude and togetherness. It’s a time for us to reflect on the craziness of these past 8 months and to appreciate the things that we have. For others, it’s a time to gather your family around and tell them all the ways they have disappointed you over the past year. I may be confusing that last part with Seinfeld’s Festivus episode, but you can….
The Airing of Grievances Continue Reading »
Uncategorized, Wills
Each province in Canada establishes its own rules regarding the distribution of property where a person dies without a will. In Ontario, intestate succession is governed by Part II of the Succession Law Reform Act (the “SLRA”). Inheritance on intestacy is limited to married spouses and blood relations. If a person dies with a common law spouse, the spouse must commence a claim for dependant support pursuant to Part V….
What Makes a Marriage? Continue Reading »
Dependant Support, Estate Administration, Estate Administration and Probate Applications, Estate Litigation, Executors, Spouse, Trustee
National Seniors Day was celebrated on October 1, 2020. I am not sure ‘celebrated’ is the right word. Most of us don’t feel like celebrating these days and should we be so inclined- we are significantly restricted. My wonderful client turned 101 in September and the only celebrants was the client, her caregiver, Ziggy and myself. Certainly quite different than last year’s celebration. We can still ‘celebrate’ in small and….
National Seniors Day Continue Reading »
Elder Care
I recently had a discussion about pour over clauses which sparked my curiosity! After some research I considered in what estate planning context this tool might be used and, as with everything, the pros and cons. In the United States, where pour over clauses appear to be used more commonly, where they are part of an estate “back-up” plan whereby a person establishes an inter vivos trust (“trust”) intended to….
Considering a “Pour Over” Clause? Continue Reading »
UncategorizedThis Blog was written by: Alicia Godin, Estate and Trust Consultant, Scotia Wealth Management If you are frequent visitor to All About Estates, you can likely appreciate the importance of a well-prepared estate plan. The cornerstone of the estate plan is the Last Will and Testament. Many contributors to this blog discuss the importance of a Will, and considerations before, during and after its preparation. There are very specific requirements….
Personhood and RBG Continue Reading »
In the News, Uncategorized, United States