Inheritance disputes have the potential to tear families apart.

When parents pass away without a clear and well-organized estate plan, even close-knit siblings can find themselves at odds. In Canada, messy inheritances are increasingly common as family structures become more complex and the value of estates grows, particularly due to rising real estate prices and investment wealth. Failing to plan properly can lead to confusion, resentment and even legal battles between children—outcomes that can permanently fracture family relationships.

Here’s how a messy inheritance can strain family ties and steps you can take to prevent it:

How a messy inheritance can create conflict:

Unclear or outdated wills--If your will is unclear or hasn’t been updated to reflect changes in your financial situation or family structure, it can create confusion about how assets should be divided. Disagreements over what you “would have wanted” can quickly escalate into accusations and fractured relationships. For example, if one child receives a larger share of the estate because of an outdated will that didn’t account for financial support given during your lifetime, other siblings may feel slighted.

Unequal distributions--While it’s your right to divide your estate however you see fit, unequal treatment between children is a common source of inheritance disputes. Even if you have valid reasons........

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