The Gay Estate
Non-traditional families face particular challenges when dealing with estate planning. Some legislation does not fully apply to non-traditional marriage. For example, a spouse’s right to elect to take an equalization of Net Family Property upon the death of a spouse under Ontario’s Family Law Act, only applies to married spouses.
“The Gay Estate: Non-Traditional Families and the Law”, a blog maintained by Chris Tymchuck, a lawyer in Edina, Minnesota, provides helpful information for unmarried, gay, separated, divorced adoptive or “other unique families”: families who fall outside of the so-called “traditional” family structure (or as Chris says, “most of us”).
The informative site focuses mainly on the laws governing estate planning. However, it sometimes verges into other related areas. The well-laid out blog is organized by categories, making for easy access to information. The blog is well written, and the absence of legalese makes it easy for non-lawyers to understand.
Recent topics include the use of life insurance to provide for loved ones, and a two-part series on documents that should be in place in the event of death.
A very worth-while read.
Paul E. Trudelle - Click here for more information on Paul Trudelle.
