How to lessen your risk of a malpractice claim when virtually witnessing...
[Updated April 24, 2020] As part of its response to the COVID-19 pandemic, on April 7, 2020 the Government of Ontario released an emergency Order temporarily allowing the virtual execution of wills and...
View ArticleThe dangers of renting out your signature as a virtual witness on a will or POA
The virtual execution of wills and powers of attorney has suddenly become a big topic for Ontario lawyers, even those practising outside the wills and estates bar. The April 7, 2020 (amended April 22)...
View ArticleIntroducing the “Small Estates” process as of April 1, 2021
The government of Ontario’s optional simplified process for probating small estates comes into effect on April 1, 2021 and applies to estates with assets of less than $150,000. This will be a welcomed...
View ArticleTips to Manage the Important New Changes to Wills, Powers of Attorney and...
The government has enacted 4 important changes regarding wills, powers of attorney (POAs) and to the administration of an estate with Bill 245 – Accelerating Access to Justice Act, 2021 which received...
View ArticleWhen You Get a Call About a Will You Drafted… What Is Your Next Step?
You’re sitting at your desk on a typical weekday afternoon when, out of the blue, you get a call related to a will file. As soon as this happens, be wary. Your first instinct may be to try to help. But...
View ArticleNew Ontario Court forms that come into force Jan 1st that will impact on...
New Ontario Court forms come into force on January 1, 2022. The amended forms, now available on the Ontario Court Forms website, have a simplified format and helpful instructions. Old forms will not be...
View ArticleTips for When a Client Dies
It is a difficult experience when a client dies. However, the right to confidentiality does not end with death and you have continuing professional duties. Our new tip sheet explains the steps to take...
View ArticleCRA’s new trust reporting requirements
This year’s tax filing season may be looking different for some people and corporate entities due to new trust reporting rules. These changes, while presenting challenges, also offer legal...
View ArticleEstates and Limitation Periods – Recent case decision
Navigating limitation periods is a critical aspect of legal practice in Ontario and lawyers are often faced with the challenge of determining which legislation applies to their clients’ cases. In a...
View ArticleSeparated but Not Divorced: Key Considerations for Wills
Amendments to the Succession Law Reform Act in 2021 (specifically to section 17 and 43.1) mean that, as of January 1, 2025, spouses who have been living separately and apart due to a breakdown in...
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