Only about half of adults in today’s society have made wills and / or Powers of Attorney.

But for so many, once they’re signed they are quickly forgotten.

Wills speak from the moment of death, not from when they’re signed. Powers of Attorney are effective the moment they’re signed, but rarely acted upon until incapacity sets in. Much can change between the time Wills and Power of Attorneys are signed and the time they are needed.

For Example:

a)      A Will is revoked by marriage;

b)      A significant change in assets, for example; acquisition of an out-of-province vacation home;

c)      Start up a business;

d)     Executors and guardians may die or grow too old or incapacitated to act;

e)      A spousal separation does NOT revoke a will (your ex would still inherit your estate!);

f)       A home-made or “Kit” Will may actually be improperly executed so as to be void, or so confusing as to defeat your intentions;

g)      Your children’s inheritances may not be protected;

h)      You may be paying too much tax on your estate.

For any of the above reasons it is important to regularly review your Wills and Power of Attorneys to ensure your intentions will be carried out.

Douglas J. Green

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