There is no global test for capacity. Capacity is a task specific concept. The threshold capacity for making a Will is not necessarily the same as may be required for managing a simple bank account or for providing investment instructions in respect of a multi-million dollar portfolio. What should we be looking for when dealing with older clients wishing to prepare a Will?
In Newell v. Newell (2011 ONSC 3228), the court awarded full indemnity costs to both parties to a guardianship dispute, despite the fact that neither party was wholly successful and the application and cross- application had become moot as a result of the death of the incapable mother.
More often than not the lost items relate to trusts and estates which have made filings without an account number. If and when found by the CRA, the agency would look to assess penalties and interest for late submissions.
