Business Details
40 Years
experience
Expert Estate and Real Estate Legal Services in Ontario
Gilmore & Gilmore Professional Corporation, established in 1986, is a law firm based in Alliston, Ontario, Canada, with additional offices in Toronto. We specialize in Wills, Powers of Attorney, Estate Law, Estate Litigation, and Real Estate transactions. Our team combines decades of legal expertise with a technology-forward approach to deliver timely, client-focused services across Ontario. With a history of growth from a single part-time lawyer to a full-service firm with six in-house staff and virtual assistants, we prioritize accessibility and seamless communication.Our Real Estate practice handles complex transactions, including new home purchases, resales, and municipal development matters. We emphasize proactive estate planning, probate administration, and dispute resolution while maintaining a commitment to ethical standards, client education, and community trust. Our deep understanding of Ontario-specific legal frameworks ensures tailored solutions for individuals and families navigating estate and real estate challenges.
Services
Estate Administration
Estate Litigation
Wills and Probate
Power of Attorney
Real Estate Transactions
Estate Planning
Probate Applications
Estate Dispute Resolution
Real Property Transfer
Trustee Services
Details
- Year established: 1986
Highlights and features
- We offer 38 years of specialized legal experience in Ontario estate and real estate law.
- Our technology-forward approach ensures seamless client communication and efficient service delivery.
- We handle complex probate, estate litigation, and real estate transactions with expertise.
- Our team provides personalized guidance for wills, powers of attorney, and estate planning.
- We maintain a strong reputation for resolving disputes through mediation and litigation.
Services
Estate Administration
We guide executors through estate administration, including asset inventory, debt settlement, tax filings, and distribution. Our team handles complex estates with contested wills, interprovincial assets, and multi-generational trusts. With expertise in Ontario's Succession Law Reform Act, we ensure compliance while minimizing delays and costs for beneficiaries.
Estate Litigation
Our firm resolves contested estates involving capacity challenges, undue influence claims, and executor misconduct. We prioritize mediation to preserve family relationships but litigate aggressively when necessary. Services include court representation for probate disputes, trust interpretation, and dependant support claims under the Family Law Act.
Wills and Probate
We draft comprehensive wills with tailored provisions for minors, blended families, and charitable gifts. Our probate services include court applications, estate tax planning, and holographic will validation. Clients receive guidance on RRSP/insurance beneficiary designations and avoiding estate freezes under Ontario law.
Real Estate Transactions
Our real estate practice covers residential and commercial purchases, new builds, and vendor representation. We handle title transfers, mortgage refinancing, and municipal severances. Clients benefit from our experience with Ontario's Land Transfer Tax, closing processes, and dispute resolution for failed transactions.
Power of Attorney
We create customized continuing powers of attorney for property and personal care. Our documents address modern challenges like digital asset management and healthcare directives. We advise attorneys on their duties, including investment authority under the Trustee Act and incapacity management.
People
James M. Gilmore
Lawyer
James M. Gilmore is a licensed Ontario attorney specializing in estate law and real estate transactions. With over 30 years of experience since founding Gilmore & Gilmore in 1986, he focuses on wills, probate, and complex property transfers. He combines traditional legal expertise with technology-driven client services.
Questions
What estate planning documents are essential for Ontario residents?
Every Ontario resident should have a valid will, continuing power of attorney for property, and power of attorney for personal care. These documents ensure your wishes are followed regarding asset distribution, financial decisions, and healthcare if you become incapacitated.
How does probate work in Ontario?
Probate in Ontario involves submitting the deceased's will to the Superior Court of Justice for validation. Our firm assists executors with the certificate of appointment process, estate asset inventory, and addressing creditor claims to ensure smooth asset distribution to beneficiaries.
Can I sell my home without a real estate agent?
Yes, Ontario law allows private home sales. We provide legal guidance for 'For Sale By Owner' transactions, including drafting purchase agreements, handling title transfers, and ensuring compliance with land registration requirements to protect your interests.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Ontario?
Intestacy laws determine asset distribution. Spouses and children typically inherit first, followed by parents or siblings. Our firm helps families navigate intestate estates, including applying for letters of administration and resolving heirship disputes under the Succession Law Reform Act.
How can I contest a will in Ontario?
Will challenges require proving lack of capacity, undue influence, or improper execution. We represent beneficiaries and executors in mediation and court proceedings, addressing issues like ambiguous gift clauses, executor misconduct, and dependant support claims.
Do I need a lawyer for real estate transactions?
While not mandatory, legal representation is strongly recommended. We ensure title clarity, handle mortgage registrations, and verify compliance with municipal zoning laws. Our services protect your interests during property transfers and resolve post-closing disputes.
