Planning for a Loved One on ODSP: The Tools That Can Protect Their Benefits
This is the second in a two-part blog post on estate planning for families with a loved one on ODSP. In our first post, we explained how an unplanned inheritance can unintentionally disqualify an ODSP recipient from their benefits. In this post, we walk through some of the legal tools available to prevent that from […]
My Family Member is on ODSP: Why Your Estate Plan Matters More Than You May Think
If you have a family member who receives Ontario Disability Support Program (“ODSP”) benefits, you may already be thinking carefully about their future. What happens to their housing, their care, their day-to-day support when you are no longer here? These are not easy questions, but they are exactly the right ones to be asking, and […]
Elder Abuse in Ontario: Warning Signs, Legal Remedies, and Prevention
Each year on June 15, communities around the world recognize World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, a time to raise awareness about a deeply concerning and often underreported issue: the abuse and neglect of older adults. In Ontario, where a growing segment of the population is over the age of 65, elder abuse is an increasingly […]
The Role of An Estate Trustee in Ontario
Being named an estate trustee (commonly referred to as an executor) is often considered an honour; it reflects a high level of trust and confidence. However, many people are surprised to learn just how significant, risky and time-consuming the role can be. Acting as an estate trustee in Ontario involves legal, financial, and administrative responsibilities […]
Home Purchases: Avoiding Five Common Legal Mistakes
Calling all Ontario homebuyers! In the excitement of purchasing your first home, relocating, or downsizing, it can be easy to lose track of critical legal details. While you focus on price, location, and style, keep an eye on these five common legal mistakes made during resale home transactions, and use our tips to avoid them. […]
When Aging Parents Refuse Help: A Difficult but Common Conversation
Q: As my parents’ Attorney for Personal Care, I am worried. My 92-year-old father and my 89-year-old mother live together in a single detached home, but refuse to accept the help and support that I am trying to arrange for them. My 90-year-old aunt just fell and broke her hip, and the doctors say she […]
Who Must Sign the Franchise Disclosure Document on Behalf of a Corporate Franchisor?
In Ontario, under the Arthur Wishart Act (Franchise Disclosure), 2000 (the “Arthur Wishart Act”), franchisors are required to provide prospective franchisees a disclosure document, which must include a certificate, certifying that the disclosure document: (a) contains no untrue information, representations or statements; and (b) includes every material fact, financial statement, statement and other information required […]
5:00 PM Means 5:00 PM: Strict Enforcement of “Time is of the Essence” Clauses
The 2025 Ontario Court of Appeal decision of Correa v. Valstar Homes (Oakville Sixth Line) Inc. (2025 ONCA 156), demonstrates that “time is of the essence” clauses will be strictly interpreted in real estate transactions in Ontario, even when a delay is as short as nine minutes. Background In 2020, the Purchasers entered into an […]
Tort Claims in Family Court – Part 2
Damages for Tort Claims Related to Domestic Violence In a previous blog post, we reviewed the types of tort claims that may be raised in family court by survivors of domestic violence. Once liability for the torts of assault, battery, or intentional infliction of emotional distress is established in family court, a judge must determine […]