Probate & Estate Administration

What’s Involved

Settling an estate is a significant responsibility. Whether you've been named an executor or are navigating the process after losing someone close to you, I'm here to guide you through it with care and clarity.

The death of a loved one is already an emotional time. The last thing you want is to feel overwhelmed by legal obligations, court filings, and creditor notices. I help executors and families manage these obligations clearly and carefully, so you can focus on what matters.

As an executor, you carry a legal obligation to administer the estate properly – notifying beneficiaries, inventorying assets, paying debts and taxes, and ultimately distributing the estate. Mistakes can create personal liability. Having a knowledgeable lawyer beside you protects both you and the beneficiaries.

What is probate?

Probate (formally called a "Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee" in Ontario) is the court process that validates a will and officially authorises the executor to administer the estate. Not every estate requires probate, but many financial institutions and land registries require it before releasing or transferring assets. I'll assess whether probate is necessary in your situation and, if so, handle the application on your behalf.

Estate Administration From Start To Finish

My role doesn't end with the probate application. I assist you with every stage of administering the estate: notifying government agencies and financial institutions, preparing the estate inventory, handling the sale or transfer of real property, settling debts and tax obligations with the CRA, preparing a final accounting for beneficiaries, and making the final distribution.

What I Can Help With

• Probate applications (Certificate of Appointment)

• Estate inventory preparation

• Creditor notification & debt settlement

• CRA tax filings & clearance certificates

• Real estate transfers

• Executor’s accounts & releases

• Intestacy administration

• Beneficiary disputes & mediation

How It Works

1. Initial Assessment
   I review the will (or advise on intestacy if there is none), identify the assets and liabilities, and determine whether probate is required.

2. Probate Application
   Where required, I prepare and file the Certificate of Appointment application with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice and calculate the Estate Administration Tax.

3. Estate Administration
   I assist with notifying institutions, managing estate assets, resolving debts, liaising with the CRA, and communicating with beneficiaries throughout the process.

4. Final Distribution
   I prepare the final accounting and executor's release, and help you make the final distribution to beneficiaries – bringing the estate to a proper close.