VoIP - Voice over Internet Phones
I was reminded by the Globe and Mail May 18, 2006 article on the VoIP software "Skype" that this is a technology boom that not everyone has become aware of.
The first question to ask is what is VoIP? It is essentially using the Internet to conduct phone calls. It is known as "Voice over Internet Protocol" (VoIP). It is a technology that allows you to make telephone calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular (or analog) phone line. Some services using VoIP may only allow you to call other people using the same service, but others may allow you to call anyone who has a telephone number - including local, long distance, mobile and international numbers. Also, while some services only work over your computer or a special VoIP phone, other services allow you to use a traditional phone through an adaptor.
Skype is a leader in this technology. Just how big is Skype? It has over 100 million registrants. It is clearly a part of the technology boom that is on a very fast track. We use the Skype software everyday and, generally speaking, it is very affordable and effective. The Skype technology has advanced to the stage that you can call from a Skype line to a regular phone line.
Those who are not keeping up with the technology are bound to be left behind!
In our ongoing effort to keep you up-to-date on our Podcasts, we have the following summaries: Hull on Estates Podcast - Summary Episode No. 4 During our 4th podcast on "Hull on Estates" - for April 18, 2006 - we discussed the following legal issues:
- the International Will;
- revocation of a will by marriage;
- the concept of lapse;
- the concept of abatement; and
- the rule in Saunders v. Vautier.
After briefly reviewing multiple wills and the issue of assets in jurisdictions outside of Ontario, we turned to the little known concept of the International Will and the provisions of the Succession Law Reform Act which allow for such a unique estate planning tool. We then turned to the issue of a will being revoked by a subsequent marriage and the rules surrounding this important turning point in an individual's life, when he or she gets married. We also went on to work through the legal concept of lapse.
Suzana reminded the listeners that Black's Law Dictionary defines lapse as "a failure to vest a bequest or devise by reason of the death of a devisee or legatee prior to the death of the testator". We also discussed the curative provisions under section 31 of the Succession Law Reform Act, which deal with circumstances where a gift will not lapse and is essentially "saved" by the statutory rules. The basic legal rules of abatement were discussed and we discussed the rule in Saunders v. Vautier, together with circumstances where a gift made to a person can be essentially "called upon" before the will-maker intended.
Hull on Estates and Succession Planning Podcast - Summary Episode No. 4
During our 4th podcast on "Hull on Estate and Succession Planning" - for April 18, 2006 - we discussed ways to "bullet-proof" a will:
- by ensuring you have proof of your mental capacity to sign a will;
- by protecting against claims of undue influence; and
- by ensuring your will is properly executed.
We hope everyone has a safe and great long weekend! Suzana and Ian --------
