Laredo Law

A power of attorney is built on trust. But that trust can be abused...

A recent Ontario case involving a common-law partner who misused a power of attorney highlights an important point: attorneys for property have a fiduciary duty to act in the grantor’s best interests, not their own. Courts are increasingly willing to hold those who abuse that authority accountable.

The lesson isn't to avoid powers of attorney. It's to choose your attorney carefully and ensure your documents are drafted properly.

Read more here:

Man jailed for POA abuse of common-law partner - Laredo Law Abuse of a POA could cost the perpetrator much more than money – it could also cost them their freedom. 

Can you change your will without a lawyer? Sometimes yes—but that doesn’t always mean you should. Small changes can seem simple, yet one mistake can create confusion, disputes, or even make parts of your will invalid.

In this video, I explain when a quick update might work and when you should seek professional help. ⚖️ Watch here & reach out anytime! https://youtu.be/RE6BPBJ-5ts?si=0smqiaXHN7Criau8

Did you know your corporation needs its OWN will? 🏢

If you own shares in any company, here's what to keep in mind:

✅ Your personal will & shareholders' agreement must align
✅ Without a plan, shares can get frozen in probate
✅ A buy-sell agreement protects your co-owners
✅ Death triggers capital gains; plan for the tax hit
✅ Pick an executor who actually understands your business

Dropped a short video on this—happy to chat if you have questions! https://youtu.be/pKZF9RCeeCY

📜 Fight Over Mother’s $27K Estate: What You Need to Know

A recent case highlights the complexities of handling small estates. Even when a will leaves behind a modest sum, disputes can arise among family members. In this article, we break down a real-life case of a family divided over a $27,000 estate.

👩‍⚖️ Key Takeaway: Even small estates can lead to costly legal battles. Clear communication and a well-drafted will can save loved ones from unnecessary conflict.

Read the full story and learn how you can avoid similar issues with proper estate planning: https://laredolaw.ca/blog/fight-over-mothers-27k-estate/

Woman ordered to pay legal costs of $27k in fight over mother’s $27k estate - Laredo Law When your legal fees are the same size as the entire estate you’re fighting over, you know something has gone wrong.

What happens if you pass away without a will? 🕊️

Many people don’t realize how complicated things can become for their loved ones when there’s no will in place. Without clear instructions, the government steps in to decide how your assets are distributed—often not the way you would have chosen.

In this video, I explain what really happens in these situations and why getting your affairs organized is so important: https://youtu.be/NuoHJhwz9oI

Spring is often a time to tidy up loose ends and think ahead, and that can apply to more than just our homes. It can also be a good time to revisit the plans we have in place to protect our families and our future.

In my latest newsletter, we're featuring 5 incredible new restaurants near Toronto perfect for a weekend road trip.

I’d also like to introduce you to Sanjay Makkar, CFA and Portfolio Manager at Logan Wealth Management. Sanjay helps high-net-worth families navigate complex financial decisions with a personalized approach focused on long-term wealth preservation and thoughtful planning across generations.

If you’d like help reviewing what you have now (or putting something in place), feel free to reach out! https://conta.cc/4ehTHo6

A recent Ontario case may have cracked the door open to electronic wills. While not fully recognized (yet), this could signal a shift in how courts approach modern estate planning. Learn more below!

Judge may have opened the door to electronic wills in Ontario - Laredo Law Ontario is one step closer to recognizing electronic wills after a judge cast doubt on the province’s apparent ban.