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Posts Categorized: Legal Resources
18 ResultsCourt Approval of a Settlement – A Refresher
There are many reasons parties may settle a lawsuit: a settlement mitigates the risks of losing in court, and puts an end to the emotional and financial drain of litigation. If all the parties to the litigation are capable adults, there is no barrier to reaching (and implementing) a settlement: once the settlement agreement is…read more
How Do Judges Decide Who Is Lying?
In nearly every lawsuit, opposing parties put forward different versions of events. After listening to the conflicting evidence, the judge has to make a decision about what really happened. The judge’s determination often hinges on an assessment of the reliability and credibility of the witnesses. Deciding whether a witness is reliable and credible is not…read more
Dead or Alive? It May Take Seven Years to Determine
Doing the work of an estate trustee can be demanding and thankless. It usually involves endless paperwork and multiple visits to the bank. However, the job is made much more difficult when it is unclear whether the deceased is, in fact, dead. While it may seem obvious, death is usually confirmed by examining a body….read more
Am I a Spouse? The Mystery of Spousal Benefits
Under the laws of Ontario, certain rights and benefits are conveyed to a “spouse.” However, there is not a universal definition of “spouse”: whether you qualify for spousal benefits depends on the governing statute. Below is a summary of some of the most common rights and benefits sought by a “spouse” on the death of…read more
Probating vs. Interpreting Wills: What’s the Difference?
In the good ol’ days (before the 90’s), Ontario had two separate courts which were responsible for handling matters relating to wills and estates: the Surrogate Court and the Superior Court. The Surrogate Court had strict jurisdiction to deal with probate matters, such as determining whether a will was valid. In contrast, questions about the…read more
Examinations and Experts Don’t Mix
Today’s blog was written by Chris Cook, student-at-law at de VRIES LITIGATION LLP. Examinations for discovery are a key step in the civil litigation process. By allowing parties to ask questions of the opposing party and witnesses before trial, the parties are able to gain a better understanding of relevant facts and documents. After examinations…read more
What is a Fiduciary?
The term “fiduciary” does not get thrown around frequently outside of some advertisements for investment services. However, fiduciary relationships are at the heart of estate and trust law. What follows is a “Fiduciary FAQ.” What is a fiduciary? A fiduciary is a person who holds some right, power, or authority which, when exercised, impacts the…read more
Involving the PGT in Guardianship and Estate Matters
Guardianship and estate disputes often present complex family dynamics touching upon a myriad of issues. Where the interests of an incapable adult are involved in litigation, the office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (the “PGT”) becomes involved. By way of background, the PGT functions in accordance with the Public Guardian and Trustee Act and…read more
Ontario Welcomes New Tort of Internet Harassment
This blog was written by Tyler Lin, Student-At-Law Ontario tort law has come a long way from its common law heritage days of the snail in a ginger beer. As modern society continues to evolve concurrently with the internet, the law has been striving to keep up. Any tool can be used for good or…read more
Marriage, Divorce, and Wills – Unforeseen Consequences
As estate lawyers, we are often asked how to avoid litigation after someone dies. While there is no way to guarantee that conflict will not arise after death, it is always helpful to have a plan; in other words, make a will. However, even if you have made a will, your job does not end…read more