Clear advice, multiple strategies, and honest communication. Barry handled my case efficiently with fair, transparent billing throughout the process.
Dealing with a Difficult Estate? We Handle Disputes and Administration Across the GTA
We represent beneficiaries, executors, and families in estate litigation. Strategic, practical representation for beneficiaries, executors, trustees, and families in estate disputes
Let’s start with a free case review
Tell us about your situation, we’re here to help you
We handle every type of estate dispute - and we get results.
Will Challenges
Contest or defend a will on grounds of lack of capacity, undue influence, improper execution, or fraud. We represent both challengers and estate trustees.
Trustee & Executor Disputes
We act for beneficiaries seeking the removal of a trustee or executor who has mismanaged, delayed, or acted improperly — and for fiduciaries defending their conduct.
Trust Disputes
Disputes over the creation, administration, or interpretation of a trust can be deeply complex. We act for trustees and beneficiaries in contested trust matters at all court levels.
Passing of Accounts
When an executor or trustee's management of estate funds is in dispute, we represent beneficiaries demanding accountability or fiduciaries defending their accounts.
Power of Attorney Disputes
We assist clients dealing with attorneys who abuse their authority or act against the grantor's best interests, and represent grantors and their families throughout.
Elder Financial Abuse
Seniors are particularly vulnerable to financial exploitation. We pursue and defend claims of elder abuse, unjust enrichment, and constructive trust on behalf of victims and their families.
Mediation & Alternative Dispute Resolution
Estate disputes are emotionally charged and expensive. Where appropriate, we help clients resolve conflicts efficiently through mediation and arbitration before resorting to court.
Dependents' Support Claims
If you were financially dependent on the deceased but were excluded from the will or left with inadequate provision, you may have a legal claim against the estate.
Guardianship & Capacity Issues
When a person can no longer manage their own affairs and there is dispute over who should act, we provide experienced guidance through all stages of guardianship proceedings.
Family Law Act Claims in Estates
When a surviving spouse elects to receive an equalization payment instead of their entitlement under a will, both executors and spouses need knowledgeable legal counsel.
Barry Nussbaum – JD, MBA, Senior Lawyer
Barry Nussbaum is a respected member of both the Ontario and New York Bars.
He completed the combined JD/MBA program at Osgoode Hall and the Schulich School of Business. Prior to practicing law, Barry was an associate at an international consulting firm, where he provided international tax consulting services to Canadian multinational companies.
Barry Nussbaum represents clients in all areas of family law, including divorce, support, property division, and domestic contracts (prenuptial, cohabitation, separation, and parenting agreements).
Barry also assists clients involved in child protection matters with the Children’s Aid Societies.
Meet the team
Alana Cameron
Associate Lawyer
Jessica Cohen
Senior Counsel – Team Lead
Rebecca Chow
Associate Lawyer
Vivian Chu
Associate Lawyer
Sarah Dingwell
Associate Lawyer
Jotty Gill
Associate Lawyer
Sophia Schwartz
Associate Lawyer
Sage Harvey
Associate Lawyer
Tanys Insley
Associate Lawyer
Adam Jaffer
Associate Lawyer
Afras Khattak
Associate Lawyer
Mariam Khattak
Associate Lawyer
Jonathan Korman
Associate Lawyer
Michael Krznaric
Associate Lawyer
Clifton Leung
Associate Lawyer
Mikaela Meglio
Associate Lawyer
Laaiba Nawal
Associate Lawyer
Julia Passeri
Associate Lawyer
Kirsi Ralko
Associate Lawyer
Ari Rubin
Associate Lawyer
Sonam Sapra
Associate Lawyer
Shmuel Stern
Of Counsel
Nicholas Vaduva
Associate Lawyer
Rebecca Ye
Associate Lawyer
Nan Zheng
Associate Lawyer
Understanding Estate Litigation
Estate litigation refers to legal disputes that arise after a person passes away, involving their will, estate assets, or the conduct of those responsible for administering the estate. These disputes can surface between family members, beneficiaries, executors, trustees, or third parties.
Common triggers include:
- A will that appears to have been signed under pressure or when the deceased lacked capacity
- An executor who delays distribution, fails to account for assets, or acts in their own interest
- A family member who believes they were wrongfully excluded or inadequately provided for
- A surviving spouse weighing their options under the Family Law Act
- An adult child who provided years of care to a parent in exchange for a promise that was never honored in the will
Estate litigation is emotionally intense and legally complex. It intersects with family dynamics, tax law, real estate, and evidence rules that apply nowhere else in civil litigation. Having a lawyer who works exclusively in this field — not one who handles estate matters on the side — can make a meaningful difference in your outcome.
What real clients say about us
Trusted by families across the Greater Toronto Area & Ontario for reliable, results-focused legal help
C.J.
Barry explained every step with clarity, patience, and professionalism. Court preparation was thorough, and his commitment showed throughout.
J.L.
Barry handled my family matter with care, professionalism, and clear communication. I would confidently recommend their services.
B.S.
Barry approaches every case with focus, clarity, and a practical mindset. Working with him made a difficult situation manageable.
A.G.
Barry and his team turned a complicated situation into a respectful resolution. Their approach was steady, thoughtful, and highly professional.
B.Z.
Professional, attentive, and thorough—Barry and his team delivered strong representation when it mattered most. I’m grateful for their support.
R.G.
Nussbaum Law handled my family matter with care, professionalism, and clear communication. I would confidently recommend their services.
B.S.
Barry consistently provides timely, reliable legal support. I’ve used his services and referred others with full confidence every single time.
Z.Z.
Why Families and Fiduciaries Trust Nussbaum Law for Estate Disputes
- Focused exclusively on estate, trust, and guardianship litigation
- Compassionate guidance backed by strong courtroom advocacy
- Experienced in representing beneficiaries, trustees, spouses, and guardians
- Strategic advice tailored to high conflict and high stakes estate matters
Get clarity on your case in a free 30-minute case review.
- We fight for your best interests
- Free initial case review
- Estate litigation experts
- Transparent, affordable fees
Tell us what you're facing –we're here to help
Start your case today. It’s free, simple, and we’ll reach out within one business day to walk you through next steps.
– Barry Nussbaum, JD, MBA, Senior Lawyer
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common concerns about eligibility, duration, and legal obligations
Can I challenge a will after probate has started?
Generally, yes, though timing matters significantly. An estate litigation lawyer can review your specific circumstances and advise whether a challenge remains viable.
Who can bring an estate dispute claim?
Anyone with a financial interest in the estate — including beneficiaries named in the will, those who were excluded, dependents, surviving spouses, and creditors — may have standing to bring a claim.
Who pays legal costs in estate litigation?
Ontario courts have moved away from the traditional practice of automatically ordering costs paid out of the estate. The modern approach follows civil litigation cost rules — generally, the losing party bears costs — with limited public policy exceptions. We discuss costs openly from the start.
Is mediation required?
mandatory mediation may apply in Toronto, Ottawa, and Essex County estate proceedings, depending on the nature of the case.
What if I think an executor is mismanaging the estate?
You have options — including applications to compel an accounting, seek directions from the court, or pursue the executor’s removal. We can advise you based on the specific conduct at issue.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. We offer a free initial case review so you can understand your position before committing to legal representation.
Let’s start with a free case review
Tell us about your situation, we’re here to help you
