Research Paper Number

29/2015

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2015

Keywords

Probate Actions, Estate Litigation, Standard of Proof

Abstract

When a will is challenged as being executed under suspicious circumstances, Canadian courts have historically sought clear, compelling, and cogent evidence to demonstrate the will’s validity. The associated standard of proof has been described as one residing beyond a balance of probabilities, and is conceptualized as the ‘third standard of proof’ in addition to the civil and criminal standards. This third standard of proof is also particularly appealing when allocating the risk of error in an estates context in which testators are deceased and no longer available to clarify their intentions or perspectives. However, after the 2008 Supreme Court of Canada decision, FH v McDougall (“McDougall”), it was resolutely pronounced that only two standards of proof operate in Canada, with the third standard of proof dismissed for the practical problems of its application. As conceded below, there are compelling and valid reasons to disregard a third standard of proof for typical will challenges investigating circumstances such as the execution of the will or the testamentary capacity of the testator. This paper argues that for challenges that involve allegations of moral guilt, and in cases of fraud or undue influence over the testator, then something more then a balance of probabilities is desirable, and the more demanding third standard of proof should be utilized.

Download

Request a copy that is accessible using assistive technology (link opens in a new window)

Share

COinS