Minute Books: the what and the why?
In this blog post, we will explore the significance of a minute book, its components, the importance of maintaining one, and the implications of not having a corporate minute book. A minute book collects all critical corporate records so that the corporation’s shareholders and creditors can easily access. A minute book can be kept online, […]
Gifting considerations in Ontario
This article aims to address various considerations surrounding inter-vivos gifts (gifts made during a person’s lifetime), as well as shed light on why it is important to you. The case of Pecore v. Pecore refers to a Canadian legal case that revolved around the issue of inter vivos gifts and the determination of the legal […]
Gifting property in Ontario
The following blog will highlight the dynamics of gift real estate in Ontario. A lot of parents want to gift real estate to help their children or extend their legacy, or in some instances both. Gifting real estate can have complex implications. Ontario has two forms of real estate gifts: (1) inter-vivos (i.e. gifts that […]
Guardianship for Property: what is it and when is it used?
This blog aims to provide readers with an understanding of the concept of guardianship for property, including its intricacies, associated risks, and potential solutions. A guardianship is a legal relationship sanctioned by the court. It comes into play when the Court determines that an individual lacks the capacity to make sound decisions. In such cases, […]
What is title insurance and why is it important?
There have been many reports in the media recently about title fraud, mainly where someone steals someone else’s title to the home by impersonating them, then sells or refinances the home, takes the money and runs away. One of the ways that homeowner can cover this risk is through title insurance. Title insurance is different […]
What Happens to Real Estate Property at Death
Whenever clients ask me what happens to their real estate property when they pass away owning property in Ontario, the fast and short answer I always give is that it depends – and the type of ownership is one of the first things we address. Sole Ownership Sole ownership means that a person owns title […]
Inheritance Laws in Ontario
If you are wondering about Ontario’s inheritance laws, it is because someone you know passed away without a will or you are worried about your own situation. However, before you conclude that someone passed away intestate, make sure they really had no will. A thorough search is necessary, and here are some ideas: in the […]
Administration of Estates in Ontario
When a loved one passes away, it is a difficult time for everybody, but it is especially difficult for those who were appointed executor and who, at the same time as mourning, have to handle the affairs of the estate, pay urgent bills, deal with beneficiaries, try to find the original will, etc. The closest […]
Common errors in the execution of estate planning documents
I was recently approached by a business acquaintance who asked me what can be done in the case of a lady who had lost her capacity and who had executed a Power of Attorney for Property (“POA”) while she had capacity. He explained that the client had used a will-making kit, that the POA had […]