One of the most well-known (if creepy-sounding) metaphors in estates law is the “dead hand”—an attempt by the deceased to continue to control their property after they have died. Estate planning can be difficult, as it can make people face questions that require them to envision themselves as no … [Read more...]
The “Drop-Dead” Rule in Civil Litigation
Lawyers are required to navigate a myriad of potential issues for their clients during the course of litigation. Clients rely on their lawyers not only to handle highly complex questions of law, but also to address the procedures required to bring their matters before the courts. While these rules … [Read more...]
Speaking to the Dead: Repealing Laws Against Pretending to Practice Witchcraft
For years, the Criminal Code has been in need of an overhaul. As the cornerstone of criminal law in Canada, the Criminal Code, is a large piece of federal legislation officially called An Act respecting the Criminal Law that includes the majority of Canada’s criminal offences, procedures, and … [Read more...]
“Ghosts” in the Criminal Code
One of the most highly publicized criminal trials in recent Alberta history ended in the fall of 2016 with a degree of judicial embarrassment. Having broken new ground by allowing the live broadcasting of his decision in the case, the trial judge mistakenly found Travis Vader guilty of the … [Read more...]
Ghost Consultants and Canada’s Immigration System
If there’s one thing most people - regardless of political stripe - can agree on, it’s that ‘crooked’ consultants are incredibly problematic for Canada’s immigration system. Stories abound in the media of unsuspecting immigrants paying thousands of dollars to an unauthorized consultant, only to … [Read more...]