Appointment of Estate Trustee
One of the most important duties of an Executor is to retain a competent estate probate lawyer and be appointed as the Estate Trustee. Before getting appointed as the Estate Trustee, we'll need to determine whether there was a properly executed Will at the date of the deceased's passing.
Where the deceased passed away with a Will, the personal representative is the named 'Executor' within the Will. At all costs, as there can never be two originals, make sure to provide our law office that handles probate with the original testamentary document at your earliest convenience.
If there was no Will, legislation then determine who the 'Administrator' to the estate is to be.
''Exceptional service. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer to help me with the legal issues I was dealing with. Not only was Rohit very professional and knowledgeable he was empathetic and courteous. He was easy to get a hold of and more than willing to patiently answer any questions that I had. Won’t hesitate to use him again and recommend him to anyone needing the services that he provides.' - R.W. - Markham, Ontario
Funeral Arrangements
Where the funeral arrangements were not pre-paid for, the Executor has the authority to make funeral arrangements on behalf of the deceased. Please note, even if there are burial wishes within the deceased's Will, these are wishes and not instructions. Therefore, there is no legislative obligation on the Executor to carry out these wishes.
Proof of Death
After the celebration of life ceremony has been completed, correspond with the funeral director of the funeral home and obtain originals of the Proof of Death. The cost of receiving the said should either be free or at a minimal cost. Once obtained, make sure to contact and provide our Toronto and Bowmanville probate law firm with at least one original Proof of Death.
Assets Belonging to the Deceased
Taking possession of, preserving, securing and ascertaining all assets belonging to the deceased, at the time of passing.
Keep in mind, ascertaining of assets may include inspecting personal papers and personal effects of the deceased, including having a view to locate financial statements, tax bills, income tax returns, and of the like.
Movable Objects Belonging to the Deceased
As the Executor, you may physically take possession of movable objects, such as: vehicles; jewelry; and other items with monetary value, afterwards putting these types of items in a safe and secure place.
When it comes to real estate, alongside the physical property, this includes the furnishings, appliances, keys and changes of locks.
Prepare an Inventory
After gathering all movable objects and assets belonging to the deceased, at the date of passing, prepare an inventory of all items. At Red Booth Law, we've done this many times and know what is involved. Even though it is time consuming, we want to make sure the CRA isn't contacting you years from now.
Provide a Value
You will have to inform the Ontario Superior Court of Justice of all asset information belong to the deceased, at the date of passing. We know what best practices are involved in these set of circumstances and will take the time to help you determine the exact amounts and specific figures to provide.
Amend Policies
Should the deceased hold title to any property, it would be wise to communicate with the property insurance companies, inform them of the deceased's passing and have the Fire Insurance Policy amended to reflect the same.
Determine How Title to Real Property is Held
Many of our married clients automatically assume title is heldjointlytogether with the other spouse; however, this is a common mistake we see all the time. For instance, at the time the real estate property was purchased, title may have been registered under only one of the spouses names. There is also the possibility of both spouses holding title to the property tenant-in-common, in which case Red Booth Law will determine how much title the deceased held at the date of passing.
We always tell our clients, as there are an abundant amount of factors contributing to why title is held the way it is, there is a difference between how title is held at the date of purchase and at the date of passing.
Changing of Land Title Records
For greater continuity, Red Booth Law also provides real estate legal services to all of our estate clients. Having access to the Land Registry Office, Red Booth Law will make sure to represent you and competently transfer the property to either the Estate Trustee's name or a third-party, including any entitled beneficiary.
Red Booth Law | Toronto | Bowmanville | 416 953 0040 | info@redboothlaw.com
NOTE: It's important to know that laws and regulations are subject to change, and the information provided in the article may not reflect the most up-to-date legal requirements. Before making any decisions or taking any action, it's essential to consult with a legal professional to ensure that you have the most current and accurate information.
The content provided on this website is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional legal advice. If you have specific questions or concerns about your situation, it's always best to consult with our estate lawyer who can provide personalized guidance.