By the team at Bobila Walker Law, serving Richmond Hill, Markham, Vaughan and the GTA

If you live in the Richmond Hill area and are dealing with estate planning, probate or executor duties, it’s critical to understand how estate law in Ontario works — what the tasks and pitfalls are, and how to secure your family’s peace of mind. Below we walk you through key issues, explain how a qualified estate & probate lawyer adds value, and highlight why working with Bobila Walker Law is a strong choice for these matters.

Why estate planning matters in Richmond Hill

Living in a fast-growing community like Richmond Hill means more homeowners, more assets, possibly multiple properties and growing complexity in family structure. Without a proper Will, power of attorney or estate plan, unintended outcomes may occur:

• If you die without a valid Will (intestate), Ontario’s formula under the Succession Law Reform Act will determine who inherits. You lose the ability to tailor distribution of your estate.

• If you are named the estate trustee (executor) but lack clear instructions or guidance, you face added burdens: obtaining probate, dealing with creditors, accounting to beneficiaries, and potentially litigated disputes.

• Proper planning (Wills, trusts, powers of attorney) not only sets out your wishes, but often reduces stress, expense and conflict for those you leave behind.

• With real estate values, tax issues, business interests and family changes common in York Region, planning is more important than ever.

Probate and estate administration: key facts for Richmond Hill executors

When someone dies and you are appointed trustee (executor), or you are a beneficiary waiting for your inheritance, here are the essentials:

• Probate is the court process in Ontario by which the will is validated and the executor obtains a Certificate of Appointment of Estate Trustee (commonly known as “probate” or “estate administration”).

• Not all estates require full probate, but many do — for example, real estate in the deceased’s name, non-registered investments, or assets without a named beneficiary.

• As executor you must: inventory the assets, pay valid debts, file the estate administration tax (unless exempt or reduced), distribute net assets to beneficiaries in accordance with the will (or law if no will), and keep proper records (passing of accounts may be required).

• Common pitfalls include assets being overlooked, delays in obtaining probate, beneficiaries in dispute, improper valuation of assets, and failure to obtain release or bond if required (such as where the trustee lives out-of-province).

• If there is estate litigation — such as will-challenges, executor/beneficiary disputes or trust claims — you’ll want a firm experienced in trusts & estates litigation and the Ontario court processes.

What to look for when choosing a Richmond Hill estates & probate lawyer

Selecting the right legal advisor for wills, trusts, probate and estate disputes is important. Here are criteria to guide your choice:

• Specialization in wills & estates (not only general practice). Look for firms that highlight estate administration, probate and executor services.

• Local experience in York Region / Richmond Hill. A lawyer familiar with the local courts, typical family structures and regional issues adds value.

• Clear process & fixed-fee transparency where possible — probate and estate work can often be accompanied by unknowns; a lawyer who guides you and anticipates issues is helpful.

• Executor/beneficiary support — ensure the firm can guide an executor through all duties and assist beneficiaries who believe the process is unfair or delayed.

• Litigation capability if a dispute arises. Not every estate ends smoothly; look for a law firm that can handle contested wills, claims against executors, and trust disputes.

Why Bobila Walker Law is the choice for estates in Richmond Hill & York Region

At Bobila Walker Law, we bring:

• A dedicated Wills & Estates team with deep experience in Ontario estate administration, probate applications and trust/estate disputes.

• A client-centric approach — we understand the emotional and practical demands on families in transition, and we guide you step-by-step through the estate process.

• Strategic advice aimed at minimizing delays, reducing cost, avoiding unnecessary family conflict, and ensuring compliance with Ontario’s estate and trustee law.

• Local availability in the GTA and York Region, enabling meetings in Richmond Hill or remotely, giving you convenience and responsiveness.

Whether you are planning your estate, stepping into the role of executor, or dealing with a contested estate, we’d be pleased to assist you.

Quick FAQ – Estates & Probate in Richmond Hill

Q: Do I always need to apply for probate?
A: Not necessarily. In some cases, estates without real estate or substantial assets may avoid a full probate application. However, if there is real property in the deceased’s name or other assets requiring estate trustee appointment, probate is often required. Proper legal advice can determine the most efficient path.

Q: My loved one died without a Will — what happens now?
A: That means the person died intestate. The Succession Law Reform Act sets out who inherits and in what proportions. Often this leads to unintended outcomes, and the estate trustee still must apply to be administrator, handle debts and distribute assets under the statutory scheme. Good legal guidance is vital.

Q: How long does probate take in Ontario?
A: Timing depends on the complexity of the estate, whether there are disputes, and whether the application is complete when filed. A streamlined application may take a few months; complex estates or those with litigation may take a year or more.

Q: Can I reduce the amount of probate tax (also known as estate administration tax) payable?
A: Possibly. Some planning strategies exist — such as making beneficiary designations, joint ownership or creating trusts — but they must be done well in advance and in conformity with Ontario law. Working with a lawyer experienced in wills & estates planning is the safe approach.

Final word

Estate and probate matters often arise at the most challenging times. Having a trusted legal advisor in your corner makes a significant difference in how smoothly things progress, how much cost is saved, and how well your wishes (or your loved one’s wishes) are honoured.

If you live in Richmond Hill, Markham, Vaughan or elsewhere in York Region and you’re facing wills, estate trustee duties or possible estate disputes — reach out to Bobila Walker Law. We’ll help you navigate the process, protect your family’s interests, and bring clarity during a tough time. Contact our Managing Partner Daniel Walker at daniel@bobilawalkerlaw.com