Core practice
Estate Planning
What you pass on is more than a number — it's a structure. Well-planned, it preserves family harmony, minimizes tax at death, and makes your wealth work for the next generation. Poorly planned, it can destroy both.
What we cover
Quantified decisions, not generalities.
- Estate freeze and family trust strategies
- Tax-at-death optimization (deemed disposition)
- RRSP/TFSA/insurance beneficiary designations
- Testamentary trust for spouse and children
- Coordinated with your notary on the will
In Quebec, death triggers a 'deemed disposition' of all your assets — as if you'd sold them the day before. For an investor with $2M in non-registered assets and a cottage, the tax at death can be $400K to $800K. Estate planning reduces that — often significantly, sometimes entirely.
Our approach is triangular: you, your notary, us. The notary drafts the deeds; we model the tax and wealth consequences of each option. We never replace your notary — we work alongside.
Questions
What our clients ask us
What is a testamentary trust?
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A trust created at your death by your will. Advantages: creditor and divorce protection, income splitting, trustee management for minor or vulnerable beneficiaries. Cost: annual trustee fees. Most relevant above $1M in estate assets.
Why consider permanent life insurance between 50 and 65?
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If you won't use all your capital in your lifetime, it's an ultra-efficient transfer vehicle. Real case: a 60-year-old client leaves an extra $500K tax-free at 95. The 50-65 window keeps premiums reasonable and gives the projection time to compound.
How do I maximize what I leave to my children and grandchildren?
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Four levers: RESPs for grandchildren (government grants), giving while alive (when kids actually need it), permanent life insurance, and an estate-oriented decumulation strategy (preserve the TFSA).
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Learn moreReady to talk through your situation?
A first meeting, with no obligation and no fee. In person in greater Montréal and Québec City, by video call, or by phone.
Book a consultation