Can I Write My Own Will in Ontario? What You Need to Know The short answer is yes — you can write your own will in Ontario. Ontario law does not require you to use a lawyer. But “can” and “should” are different questions. A will that is technically permitted but poorly prepared can still...
One of the most misunderstood aspects of estate planning in Ontario is which assets are subject to probate — and which pass directly to beneficiaries without ever touching the Estate Administration Tax. The answer matters for two reasons. First, it affects how much the estate pays in probate fees. Second, it affects which assets your...
If you’ve been named executor of an estate in Ontario, you are probably asking yourself: do I actually need to hire a lawyer for this, or can I handle it myself? The straightforward answer is: you are not legally required to hire a lawyer to apply for probate in Ontario. An executor can prepare and...
Probate Fees in Ontario: What Executors Will Pay in 2025 One of the most common questions executors ask before starting the probate process is: how much is this going to cost? In Ontario, the answer depends largely on the size of the estate — specifically, its value at the date of death. Ontario charges what...
How Long Does Probate Take in Ontario? When a loved one passes away, one of the first questions families ask is: how long will this take? If you are an executor dealing with probate in Ontario, you need a realistic picture of the timeline — because managing an estate while grieving requires knowing what to...
Settling an Estate in Ontario? When a loved one dies, families are suddenly asked to make decisions while navigating unfamiliar legal steps. If you’ve been named executor (legally, an “estate trustee with a will”) or you’re stepping in because there’s no will (often called an “estate trustee without a will”), this guide explains—in clear, practical...
In today’s digital age, individuals maintain dozens—if not hundreds—of online accounts. Yet, the vast majority of Canadians have not accounted for their digital footprint in their estate plans. What happens to your photos on Google Drive? Your PayPal balance? Your cryptocurrency wallet? Without clear legal instructions, families can be locked out of valuable or sentimental...
Choosing the right estate lawyer in Ontario can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with grief, legal jargon, and the need to make fast decisions. Imagine this: Janet, a 55-year-old Ottawa resident, just lost her father. She’s now responsible for settling the estate, but doesn’t know where to begin. Should she hire a probate lawyer? Does...
The Cost of Not Having a Will: Legal Consequences and Financial Pitfalls What really happens when someone dies without a will in Ontario? Consider this: A father of two passes away unexpectedly. He owned a small business, had a mortgage, and several bank accounts. Unfortunately, he never got around to making a will. Now, his...
Imagine this: You run a small landscaping business in Ottawa and just completed a $6,000 job. The client loved the work but never paid. Weeks go by. Calls are ignored. Now you’re wondering: Should I take legal action? If you’re thinking about recovering money or property through the Ontario small claims court, it’s important to...