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How Long Does an Executor Have to Distribute an Estate in Ontario?
One of the most common questions we hear from beneficiaries is: “Why is this taking so long?” Estate administration in Ontario can be a complex process, and while there is no fixed deadline by law, executors are expected to move at a reasonable pace. If you’re an...
When Delay Becomes Dereliction – A Cautionary Tale from Hockney v. Kneeland
Administering an estate isn’t a suggestion — it’s a legal obligation. And when a trustee fails to fulfill that obligation, the court has no issue stepping in. The Ontario Superior Court’s decision in Hockney v. Kneeland, 2025 ONSC 1309, makes it clear: executors who...
Can a Handwritten Will Be Valid in Ontario? What You Need to Know
Handwritten wills, also known as holograph wills, often surface when someone passes away unexpectedly or without formal legal assistance. While these wills may appear informal or incomplete, Ontario law does recognize them—under certain conditions. At Kimel Law Group,...
What Happens If an Executor Refuses to Act? Estate Administration Challenges in Ontario
When someone is named as an executor in a will, they have the legal responsibility to manage and distribute the estate according to the deceased’s wishes. However, not all executors are willing or able to fulfill this role. Whether due to personal reasons, conflicts,...
The Ontario Court of Appeal Reinforces Principles for Estate Trustee Removal: Kasanda v. Sartarelli, 2025 ONCA 27
The Ontario Court of Appeal’s recent decision in Kasanda v. Sartarelli, 2025 ONCA 27 reinforces key legal principles governing estate trustee removal in Ontario. This case reaffirms that the welfare of the beneficiaries and the proper administration of the estate...
The Role of Mediation in Estate Disputes: Can You Avoid Court?
Estate disputes can be highly emotional, often pitting family members against each other over inheritance rights, will challenges, or the actions of an executor. While litigation is one way to resolve these conflicts, it is often costly, time-consuming, and stressful...
Dying Without a Will: The Consequences and Why Half of Canadians Need to Act Now
For many Canadians, estate planning feels like a task to put off for another day. Shockingly, over half of Canadians do not have a will, leaving their loved ones vulnerable to unnecessary legal and emotional challenges. At Kimel Law Group, we often see the unfortunate...
Understanding the Vital Role of a Probate Certificate
In the intricate landscape of estate planning and administration in Ontario, one crucial document holds significant sway: the Probate Certificate. For those uninitiated in legal jargon, the term might sound daunting. However, understanding its importance is paramount...
The Impact of Family Dynamics on Estate Litigation in Ontario
In the realm of estate planning and litigation, family dynamics play a pivotal role, often dictating the complexity and direction of legal proceedings following a loved one’s death. At Kimel Law Group, we recognize that understanding and managing these dynamics can be...
Estate Planning for Entrepreneurs: Securing Your Business Legacy in Ontario
Entrepreneurs dedicate their lives to building successful businesses, but many overlook the critical aspect of securing their business legacy through estate planning. In Ontario, where business and personal laws intersect uniquely, it's essential for entrepreneurs to...
Safeguarding Digital Legacies: Protecting and Managing Digital Assets in Ontario Estate Planning
Safeguarding Digital Legacies: Protecting and Managing Digital Assets in Ontario Estate Planning In today's digital age, our lives are increasingly entwined with technology. From social media accounts to online banking, digital assets have become an integral part of...
Understanding Estate Trustee Bonds in Ontario
In the realm of estate administration in Ontario, the role of an estate trustee (also known as an executor) is critical. Estate trustees are entrusted with managing and distributing a deceased person's assets according to their will. However, one aspect that may not...
Empowering Your Legacy: A Comprehensive Guide to Effective Estate Planning
Crafting your legacy is not just a legal matter but a deeply personal and significant endeavor. Let's explore the comprehensive approach to estate planning, offering insights that can empower you to secure your legacy with confidence. Understanding the Essence of...
Challenging a Will After Probate in Ontario
In the aftermath of a loved one's passing, dealing with legal matters can be an emotionally charged and complex process. One such aspect is the distribution of assets through the probate of the deceased's will. However, circumstances may arise where individuals...
Navigating Estate Distribution: A Comprehensive Guide Beyond Marriage
The intricate web of legalities surrounding estate distribution becomes even more complex when individuals have experienced marital changes. Understanding the nuances of testamentary laws is crucial for ensuring that the final wishes of the deceased are carried out...
Demystifying the Probate Certificate
Estate management in Ontario often involves grappling with legal intricacies, and one key element in this realm is the Probate Certificate, officially known as the Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee. Let's cut through the legal jargon and get straight to...
When Should You Consider a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee in Ontario?
In the realm of Ontario's legal procedures, a certificate of appointment of estate trustee goes by the common term "probate." It plays a pivotal role in the management of an individual's estate after their passing. When an estate trustee opts to apply for this...
Understanding the Role of Mediation in Ontario Estate Litigation
If you're already familiar with estate litigation, you'll know that it's often an emotionally charged and complex process. One of the tools that can make this process less adversarial and more constructive is mediation. This post will delve into the benefits of...
Navigating the Complexities of Estate Litigation in Ontario: Current Landscape and Key Considerations
As professionals well-versed in estate litigation in Ontario, we understand the complexities that individuals face when embarking on this challenging legal journey. This blog post aims to shed light on the current legal landscape in Ontario, as it relates to estate...
Removing an Executor of an Estate in Ontario: What You Need to Know
Removing an Executor of an Estate in Ontario: What You Need to Know The executor of an estate is responsible for managing the deceased's assets and distributing them according to the terms of the will. However, sometimes the executor may not fulfill their duties...