Canadian seniors face sibling manipulation in estate planning

A financial advisor raised concerns about unscrupulous siblings influencing the estate decisions of a last surviving parent. The advisor described scenarios where a child and spouse move in to assist an aging parent, then later introduce a new will or joint ownership of assets that surprise other siblings. He asked what safeguards can prevent such “funny business,” suggesting measures like videotaped statements of intent, requiring all children’s signatures for will changes, or registering the will to block unilateral alterations.

The author, Paul Hergott, expressed anger at the exploitation of vulnerable seniors and highlighted his series on the legal principle of “undue influence.” He cited a case where a senior left her estate to a male escort, prompting distant relatives to contest the will, underscoring the need for protective strategies for seniors' generosity.