Gillian Fournie

What Happens to My Pet When I Die?

For many, the greatest loves of their lives are their furry (or scaly) friends. As a result, there is often a strong desire to make sure they are properly cared for after the testator’s death. How to accomplish this is not always straightforward. In Ontario, animals are considered personal property. This means that you can […]

Advice to Executors and Trustees, Estate Administration, Estate Litigation, Estate Planning, Other Claims & Remedies Against Estates, Trusts

What is a “Common Law Spouse”?

In Canada, every person is afforded certain protections in the event they get divorced. For example, there are statutes in place to help determine how the couple will divide their property and whether one of them is entitled to child support or spousal support (and what amount). However, not every couple in a committed, long-term

Dependant’s Relief Claims, Estate Litigation, Legal Resources, Other Claims & Remedies Against Estates, Spousal Elections

Does a Joint Bank Account Go to the Survivor or the Estate?

The Law of Resulting Trusts What happens to jointly owned assets following the death of one of the joint owners? In the normal course, full ownership passes to the surviving owner.[1] However, this result may seem unfair where only one of the owners paid for the property or, in the case of bank accounts, only

Advice to Beneficiaries, Advice to Executors and Trustees, Estate Administration, Estate Litigation, Forms of Relief, Joint Assets, Legal Opinions on Estate Administration, Other Claims & Remedies Against Estates

My Sister Died Without a Will – What Happens Now?

A will allows an individual to decide in advance who will administer her estate and who will receive her assets when she dies. Testamentary freedom is guaranteed to all Canadians, meaning we are free to choose who will benefit from our estates: family members, friends, pets, charities, or our favourite sports team. (Note that most

Advice to Beneficiaries, Advice to Executors and Trustees, Estate Administration, Estate Planning, Other Claims & Remedies Against Estates, Probate
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