A proper estate plan covers much more than just your will.  Without a comprehensive plan, the risk of an expensive unwanted result is very high.

When there is no plan and no will, the results can be very painful.

Joint ownership, tenants-in-common, life interests – learn the difference and the power of these options for planning.

Joint ownership of houses and savings can be an effective planning tool.  It can also be a recipe for disaster.  Use with caution!

Designations for RRSPs, RRIFs, TFSAs, and life insurance are among the most powerful tools in estate planning.  Used improperly they can cause great harm.

Financial obligations to current and former partners, children, and parents are a key part of proper estate planning

A key part of estate planning is considering gifts made now not later

If you own property outside Ontario, or own shares in private companies you absolutely must consider making multiple wills.

In Ontario, the formal requirements are strict: for a will to be valid, they must be met completely.

A good will includes an affidavit of execution, prepared when the will is signed.

Amendments must follow the rules for wills, or they are invalid.

Proper storage is crucial – a will that cannot be found is worse than useless.

A power of attorney for property is crucial.  Establish who can manage your finances for you.

Establish who can make health care decisions for you when you are not able to instruct medical staff yourself.

Issues to consider

The key obligations of a power of attorney for property.

Compensation for attorneys.  The requirement to provide accounts.

Securing and replacing your POA documents.

What an attorney should not do.

In plain English.

Being an executor is a job not an honour.  Choose wisely.

Learn the rules and limits for naming a guardian for your child(ren) in your will.

Who gets what? is a key component of any will.

A properly drafted trust in your will can be an extremely powerful tool.  Learn why.