Why not Draft a Cat Will?

Since this is “bring your cat to the office day”, I had an interesting situation to bring to your attention. An elderly woman passed away and she loved her cat …

Spousal Refusal on Buyout

Can one spouse refuse to allow the other to buy them out of the matrimonial home at accredited appraiser’s value and insist on property being listed and sold? This is …

When Does the Power of Attorney Start?

This is a very interesting question. Many will say that the Power of Attorney does not start until the person (who granted it) becomes incapacitated. However, that’s not true. Let …

Child Added to Title of Family Home

Joint Tenancy – Numerous Risks This may or may not be a good idea. At the outset, the advantage is to eliminate “probate fees”. Actually, that’s the estate administration tax, …

Confiscation Tax

Confiscation Tax (66.67% inclusion of capital gains) With Trudeau’s resignation, the Confiscation Tax may be gone. There were amendments to the capital gains taxes to be implemented effective 24 June …

Estate Planning: 30 Year Marriage

Question: The husband and wife have been married for more than 30 years and have 4 adult children. They co-own their primary residence and two condo investments. Can one of …