Wills & Estates

A legal document lies on a wooden table with an elegant black and gold pen placed on top. The document is photographed in a professional office setting with blurred windows and warm lighting in the background, creating a sophisticated atmosphere perfect for estate planning consultations.

5 Common Will Mistakes Every Ontario Resident Should Know About

The rise of online will kits and DIY estate planning solutions might seem tempting for Ontario residents looking to save money. However, as an experienced estate lawyer serving Belleville and the Quinte region, I’ve seen firsthand how cutting corners on will preparation can lead to costly complications for families later on. The Concerning State of…
Retirement planning 2025: Confident couple reviewing legal and financial documents, preparing estate plans and retirement checklist for secure financial future

Building a Bulletproof Retirement Plan for 2025 and Beyond

As we approach 2025, retirement planning has evolved to encompass a wide range of legal and financial considerations. Whether you’re on the cusp of retirement or planning ahead, it’s important to understand how to secure your future. This comprehensive guide will walk you through essential aspects of retirement preparation, from updating your Will to managing…
Holiday memorial candle lighting ceremony with In Memoria remembrance display: hands in warm sweater lighting memorial candles among Christmas greenery and ornaments for charitable legacy tribute

Leaving a Legacy: How “In Memoria” Holiday Donations Impact Your Will

The holiday season often brings a spirit of generosity and reflection. As we gather with loved ones and count our blessings, many of us feel inspired to give back to our communities and causes close to our hearts. But what if your generosity could extend beyond your lifetime? Enter the world of legacy gifts and…
Vintage holiday heirloom ornaments carefully stored in original box: collection of inherited Christmas decorations including gold, green, and red glass baubles with traditional designs and red ribbon

Passing Down Beloved Holiday Treasures Through Your Will

The holiday season is a time of joy, togetherness, and cherished traditions. For many families, these traditions are closely tied to special heirlooms passed down through generations. Whether it’s Grandma’s vintage ornaments, Great-Aunt Edna’s menorah, or your father’s prized nutcracker collection, these items hold sentimental value that goes far beyond their monetary worth. But how…
Christmas tree with twinkling lights symbolizing seasonal charitable giving and end-of-year tax planning decisions

How Charitable Giving During the Holidays Can Affect Your Will & Maximize Your Tax Benefits

The holiday season often inspires a spirit of generosity, leading many to consider charitable giving. While this practice is admirable in its own right, it can also have significant implications for your estate planning and tax situation. In this article, we’ll explore how you can integrate charitable gifts into your Will to maximize tax benefits…
Focus on mug and laptop on table. Elderly couple focused on how to prepare their own will in the background

Understanding How to Prepare Your Own Will

Creating a will is an important step in managing your estate and ensuring your final wishes are carried out. While many people hire a lawyer for this task, some choose to prepare their own will. In this post, we will walk you through how to prepare your own will, highlighting the steps, challenges, and considerations…