Chapter 15 Flashcards
If Bill does not provide adequately for his spouse, Alice, in his will, Alice could initiate a claim based on the
matrimonial property legislation.
The legal process by which courts confirm a person’s will to be their valid last will and testament. It also validates the authority of the executor.
Probate
In common law provinces, a document that authorizes the appointed donee to manage the donor’s financial affairs, even if the donor becomes mentally incapable (common law provinces only).
continuing power of attorney
A court order proving that a will is the deceased’s last will. It also gives the executor control over the estate’s assets and liabilities and the authority to administer the estate.
Letters Probate
The person who settles the estate of a deceased person and distributes the assets according to the terms of the deceased’s will.
executor
A clause in a will that allows for more flexibility in regard to the executor’s investment decisions.
investment discretion clause
In Quebec, all property in the estate of a deceased person, including all assets and liabilities, as well as the whole of the person’s rights and obligations.
patrimony
An amendment to a will that is technically considered to be a will on its own.
codicil
A clause in a will that allows the executor to use assets for the benefit of minor beneficiaries until they reach the age of majority.
discretionary encroachment clause
In Quebec, the person who settles the estate of a deceased person and distributes the assets according to the terms of the deceased’s will.
liquidator
A document that allows a donor to appoint someone to make certain non-financial decisions (such as choosing the donor’s place of residence, food, or medical treatment) if donor becomes mentally incapable.
power of attorney for personal care
A clause in a will that allows the surviving beneficiary to use, occupy, and enjoy a specified property during their lifetime. The testator may wish for another beneficiary to receive the asset itself when the surviving beneficiary dies.
life interest in a specific asset clause
A will written and signed entirely in the handwriting of the testator, without using any mechanical device. No writing of any sort can appear on it other than handwriting of the testator.
holograph will
A person who dies without having made a will or having made a will that was revoked or otherwise determined to be invalid.
intestate
A document that allows a donor to appoint someone to make monetary decisions on their behalf, such as paying bills and managing investments. It may give limited or general authority to act.
financial power of attorney
A clause in a will that requires a certain period to pass (30 days) after the death of the testator before assets are distributed to a particular beneficiary so as to avoid going through probate twice within a short time.
survivorship clause
A document that provides detailed directions on the treatment a person wishes or does not wish to receive in the event of a terminal illness or incurable injury.
advanced health care directive, sometimes referred to as a living will
A person who makes a will.
testator
In Quebec, a will that is drafted and attested by a specific type of legal professional. Such a will is not subject to probate upon the testator’s death.
notarial will
In what situation must the executor produce a final account, showing the succession’s residual assets, which must be accepted by the heirs?
If the liquidation of an estate lasts more than a year
If the liquidation of an estate lasts more than a year, the executor must
prepare an account of his or her management to the heirs and creditors at least once per year.
In Ontario, executors are also called
estate trustees
In the common law provinces, when a person dies without a valid will, a ______ _________ is necessary before any of the deceased’s assets can be distributed. Assets are then distributed in accordance with provincial _________ laws.
court application
Intestacy
Under this Act, a surviving (married) spouse takes a preferential share of the deceased spouse’s estate (currently
$200,000), plus a proportional share of the balance.
Succession Law Reform Act
A will has two main purposes:
- Identify the persons whom the testator wants as beneficiaries.
- Appoint an executor.
Wills can be made in three basic forms:
- Conventional or formal will
- Holograph will
- Notarial will in Quebec
A conventional/formal will in Quebec is known as a
will made in presence of witnesses
Who can prepare a formal/conventional will?
Anyone, but clients should consult a legal expert to ensure proper working and compliance with the province’s formal rules of execution
For a conventional will in the common law provinces, the testator must sign the will in the presence of…
two witnesses
In Quebec, a notarial will is a will that is drafted and attested by a notary. It is signed by the notary, the testator, and a witness (who is not required to know the contents of the will). Such documents are considered _______ _____ and are not subject to probate upon the testator’s death.
notarial deeds
Deathbed gift made by a dying person. It is made with the intent that the person receiving the gift shall keep it if death ensues.
Gift Mortis Causa
A typical will has the following components:
- Identity of the testator
- A statement revoking all former wills or codicils
- Appointment of the executor or executors and substitute executors
- Instructions to pay all just debts and taxes, as well as funeral and estate-related expenses
- Identity of the beneficiaries (heirs or legatees) to receive specific assets and the residue of the estate, and the terms on which they are to receive them
Under the relevant law, the executor is restricted to making only conservative, often low-return investments for the estate. This clause will allow more flexibility in making investment decisions for the estate.
Investment discretion clause
This clause allows you to appoint a friend or family member as guardian (or tutor, in Quebec) of minor children
guardian appointment clause
This clause allows the executor to make various income tax elections on the estate’s tax return, where appropriate and advantageous.
the tax election clause