This paper discusses the use of inter vivos trusts and multiple wills by estate planning practitioners. Within the topic of inter vivos trusts, alter ego trusts and joint partner trusts are reviewed, including their benefits and drawbacks, and when they should be used. Considerations for how to settle a trust are also highlighted. Additionally, the benefits and disadvantages of using multiple wills as an estate planning tool are discussed. This paper also includes a list of top 10 estate planning tips.

This paper is part of a collection presented at LESA’s Estate Planning Essentials program in Calgary on October 20, 2016 and in Edmonton on October 27, 2016.