Wills & Estate Planning

Yes. If you die without a valid will, Ontario's Succession Law Reform Act decides who inherits your property, and the result may not match your wishes at all. A will plan lets you:

• Choose who inherits your property and in what proportions
• Name an estate trustee (executor/executrix) you trust to manage your affairs
• Appoint a guardian for your minor children
• Plan for tax-efficient transfers that reduce costs for your family

Without a will, your loved ones face delays, additional legal costs, and outcomes that can surprise even close family members. Learn more in our blog post: What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Ontario?

A power of attorney is a legal document that authorises someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if you become unable to do so yourself. Ontario recognises two types:

• Power of Attorney for Property - covers decisions concerning your property such as paying bills, managing investments, and handling real estate.
• Power of Attorney for Personal Care - covers health-care decisions, including consent to treatment and long-term care arrangements.

Without these documents, your family may need to apply to court for a guardianship order, a process that is time-consuming, expensive, and stressful. We strongly recommend that every adult in Ontario have both powers of attorney in place alongside their will.

Estate planning professionals generally recommend reviewing your will and powers of attorney every three to five years. You should also review your documents sooner if you experience a major life event, such as:

• Marriage, separation, or divorce
• The birth or adoption of a child or grandchild
• A significant change in your financial situation
• The death or incapacity of a named beneficiary, estate trustee, or guardian

A quick review with your lawyer can confirm whether updates are needed. In many cases, only minor changes are required.

An estate planning lawyer drafts legally valid wills and powers of attorney tailored to your specific circumstances. Beyond drafting, we help you think through important decisions:

• Who should act as your estate trustee
• How to provide for a spouse, dependants, or blended-family situations
• How to minimise probate fees (the Estate Administration Tax in Ontario)
• How to structure gifts or trusts for children, grandchildren, or charitable causes

We also help clients review and update existing documents and advise on estate administration when a loved one has passed away.

The cost depends on the complexity of your situation. A straightforward will for an individual is less expensive than a comprehensive estate plan for a couple with business interests, trusts, or blended-family considerations. At Bussey Ainsworth, we quote a flat fee upfront so there are no surprises. Call our office at 705-749-0628 to discuss your needs. We're happy to give you a sense of costs before you commit to anything.

Barry Bussey brings decades of experience in wills, estates, and trust planning. He has helped hundreds of families across Ontario, including Peterborough, the Kawarthas, and the surrounding region protect their loved ones and their assets. Our firm is known for taking the time to explain your options in plain language, ensuring you understand every document you sign. We offer convenient office hours (Monday–Thursday, 8 a.m.–5:30 p.m.; Friday, 8 a.m.–3 p.m.) and a comfortable, welcoming environment at our Rink Street office. Our 5.0-star Google rating reflects the care and attention we bring to every client relationship.