top of page
Tips from An Ontario Estate Lawyer


Keeping the Family Cottage in the Family: Estate Planning for Ontario’s Secondary Properties
Learn how estate planning can help Ontario families pass down cottages and rental properties while addressing taxes, probate, and family dynamics

Erin Watson, JD


Understanding Discretionary Trusts in Ontario
Learn how discretionary trusts work in Ontario, when they may be useful in estate planning, and how they can help protect and support beneficiaries.

Erin Watson, JD


Why Using an Online Will Template Is a Terrible Idea (And What to Do Instead)
Discover why using an online will template in Canada can lead to costly mistakes. Learn why a customized estate plan is essential for your family's future.

Erin Watson, JD


Why You Should Not Rely on AI to Create Your Will or Estate Plan
Thinking of using AI to create your Will? Learn the risks, legal gaps, and why Ontario estate planning requires advice from a qualified lawyer.

Erin Watson, JD


Estate Planning for Private Corporations in Ontario
Own shares in a private corporation? Learn how estate planning for private corporations in Ontario can address tax consequences, succession planning, and business continuity.

Erin Watson, JD


Estate Planning After Remarriage in Ontario: Protecting Children and Spouses
Remarried in Ontario? Learn how to protect your spouse and children through proper estate planning, trusts, and updated wills.

Erin Watson, JD


How Marital Status Affects Estate Planning in Ontario
Marriage, common-law relationships, and separation can all change how estate planning works in Ontario. Here is what you need to know.

Erin Watson, JD


Make Estate Planning Your New Year’s Resolution
Estate planning is a smart way to start the New Year. Learn why setting estate planning goals now helps protect your loved ones and avoid costly mistakes.

Erin Watson, JD


Tax Implications for Estates in Ontario
Many Ontarians are surprised by how taxes apply after death. Learn how income tax, capital gains, and the Estate Administration Tax affect estates in Ontario and how careful planning can reduce the burden.

Erin Watson, JD


Foreign Assets in Estate Planning
Owning property or investments outside Canada can complicate estate planning. Learn how Ontario residents can use multiple Wills, professional coordination, and proactive strategies to manage foreign assets effectively.

Erin Watson, JD


Inheritance in Ontario: Protecting What’s Yours
Learn how inheritance is treated under the Ontario Family Law Act and how Estate Planning can protect family wealth.

Erin Watson, JD


When Should You Update Your Will in Ontario?
Need to update your Will in Ontario? Our experienced estate lawyers can guide you through life’s changes to ensure your wishes are clear and legally protected.

Erin Watson, JD


Principal Residence Trusts in Ontario
Learn how a Principal Residence Trust in Ontario can help transfer your family home, preserve the principal residence exemption, reduce probate fees, and protect your beneficiaries.

Erin Watson, JD


Estate Planning for Ontario Business Owners
Ontario business owners can reduce probate fees and protect their company’s future with multiple Wills and strategic estate planning.

Erin Watson, JD


How to Reduce the Risk of an Estate Challenge in Ontario
Learn how to reduce the risk of an estate challenge in Ontario through strong wills, capacity documentation, trusts, and strategic legal tools.

Erin Watson, JD


What is a Henson Trust? Special Needs Planning in Ontario
A Henson Trust allows Ontario families to provide financial support to a loved one with a disability without impacting their ODSP benefits. Learn how it works and why it matters in special needs estate planning.

Erin Watson, JD


Estate Planning for Minor Children
Learn how to structure your Will to support your children if they inherit while still minors.

Erin Watson, JD


Avoiding Probate on Real Estate: Understanding the First Dealings Exemption in Ontario
Learn how the First Dealings Exemption in Ontario can help avoid probate and reduce estate tax.

Erin Watson, JD


What Are Digital Assets?
Learn what digital assets are and why they matter in estate planning. From online accounts to cryptocurrency, protect your digital legacy in Ontario.

Erin Watson, JD


Estate Planning: Charitable Donations
Learn about considerations for including charitable donations in your estate plan including tax benefits, types of gifts, and how to leave a legacy.

Erin Watson, JD
bottom of page
.png)

