Guide for Executors: From Will to Distribution
Being named an executor is both an honor and a significant responsibility. Executors are entrusted with ensuring that the deceased’s final wishes are carried out while managing legal, financial, and tax-related matters. Understanding the process from start to finish is crucial to fulfilling this role effectively. Step 1: Understanding Your Role as an ExecutorAn executor […]
Your New Year’s Resolution for Peace of Mind: Estate Planning
As we step into a fresh year full of opportunities, now is the perfect time to prioritize your goals, and we believe estate planning should be at the top of your list. Whether you are just starting to think about it or need to revisit an existing estate plan, taking steps toward securing your family’s […]
Why Every Ontarian Needs a Will: Key Benefits of Estate Planning
Why Every Ontarian Needs a Will: Key Benefits of Estate Planning When it comes to securing your assets and protecting your loved ones, having a Will is an essential step for every Ontarian. While it’s easy to put off, estate planning is a powerful way to ensure your hard-earned legacy is managed according to your […]
Who Has the Right to See Your Will?
The decision to reveal the contents of your will involves a delicate balance between privacy concerns and practical considerations. Below are some of the factors that you should consider once you have executed your will: LEGAL IMPLICATIONS- Legally, there is no obligation to disclose the contents of your last will while you are alive. However, […]
Ontario Superior Court appoints new estate trustee due to failure to act in an estate dispute
Dorothy Hagel, Barrister & Solicitor, and her team at Hagel Lawfirm successfully represented the applicant in an estate dispute, Drennan v. Drennan, 2024 ONSC 3905. The applicant, the daughter of the deceased, is entitled to 50 percent of the residuary estate under her father’s will. Her brother received 25 percent, and their niece and nephew […]
Fairness to self-reps often drives up costs for opposing parties, says Dorothy Hagel
Dorothy Hagel, Barrister & Solicitor and her team at Hagel Lawfirm, recently represented the applicant in an estate dispute, Drennan v. Drennan, 2024 ONSC 3905, where the Ontario Superior Court addressed key issues around litigation financing and unrepresented litigants. While litigation financing is common in personal injury law, says Dorothy Hagel, who acted for the […]
Minor kids can benefit from parents estate planning
It’s likely the one single thing that leads most parents to plan for the future is their children. No one likes to think about death. However, if you have minor children, it is crucial to do some estate planning for those unforeseen events that occasionally happen. Primarily, who will care for the children when you […]
The ins and out of challenging a will
People who take the time for comprehensive estate planning try not to make errors. Unfortunately, some family members who feel slighted by a will during the estate administration process might choose to challenge the will. Doing so can be costly, time-consuming (it can drag on for years), and emotionally draining. For people who were left […]
Assessing mental capacity before proceeding with a guardianship
If it appears that a family member may be having problems making decisions regarding important issues, there are a number of potential steps to take. One possibility for those in Ontario facing this situation could be a guardianship, but before moving forward, the person must be assessed regarding his or her mental capability. Is the […]