The Discretion of Costs
In April 2026, I wrote about the decision in Kunka Estate v. Giasson, which considered whether resulting trust principles apply to beneficiary designations on registered accounts such as TFSAs and RRIFs. Read More
All About Estates & de VRIES LITIGATION LLP: Sharing More Insights in More Places
Our collaborative blog, All About Estates, is now over 15 years old. Around 3,500 people subscribe to the daily emails; the website receives 5,000 visits a month, with 11,000 page views. Read More
The Power of Probate
Certificates of Appointments of Estate Trustee, or probate, as it is often referred to, is the process which confirms the ability of an estate trustee to administer an estate. Read More
Costs Awards and ‘Clean Hands’
In estate litigation, costs awards follow the ‘loser pays’ principle. Generally, this means the losing party has to pay a portion of the winning party’s costs. Read More
Reminder: Special Rules and Procedures in Small Estates
In Ontario, a small estate is defined as an estate valued at $150,000 or less. In recognition of their size and limited assets, the [Estates Act] enforces special rules and procedures regarding the administration of small estates. A notable example of a special consideration in small estates is the surety bond requirement. An estate administration Read More