Hagel Lawfirm

Hagel Lawfirm A boutique law firm in Mississauga, specializing in estate planning, wills, and probate law. Ms.

Dorothy Hagel, JD, CFP , is a lawyer whose practice focuses on all aspects of estate matters, including estate planning, administration and litigation. Dorothy Hagel provides clients with sound and practical advice, while assisting them with the with the preparation and implementation of their estate plans or representing their interests in court. Hagel sponsors community events and partners with

other professionals to educate the public and the financial planning community on estate planning and advocates the importance of planning for one’s own legacy. Hagel is also known for providing regulatory compliance consulting for investment dealers, mutual funds dealers, portfolio managers and financial advisors. She defends financial services industry professionals, who face disciplinary proceedings and regulatory enforcement actions. Practice areas:
-Estate Litigation
-Estate Planning and Administration
-Civil Litigation
-Compliance Assistance
•

Many people assume that estate theft only happens when someone breaks into a home and takes valuables. In reality, estat...
07/17/2026

Many people assume that estate theft only happens when someone breaks into a home and takes valuables. In reality, estate assets are more commonly lost through the misuse of legal authority or a breach of trust.

Examples may include:
• Failing to disclose bank accounts or investments during estate administration.
• Selling estate property and keeping the proceeds.
• Removing valuables from a deceased person's home before they are inventoried.
• An estate trustee distributing assets improperly or favouring one beneficiary over another.

Why does this matter?
Estate trustees and attorneys for property are fiduciaries. This means they must act honestly, in good faith, and in the best interests of the person or estate not for their own personal gain.

When someone misappropriates estate assets, the legal consequences can be significant.

At Hagel Lawfirm, we assist clients with estate administration, fiduciary disputes, Power of Attorney matters, and estate litigation across Ontario.

The first month after a loved one’s death can be one of the most difficult and overwhelming periods a family will ever f...
06/17/2026

The first month after a loved one’s death can be one of the most difficult and overwhelming periods a family will ever face.

Alongside grief, there are often urgent practical responsibilities that require attention. For executors and family members, knowing where to start can make the process more manageable.

Some important first steps include:

✔️ Securing the deceased’s home and assets
✔️ Locating the Will and other key documents
✔️ Gathering financial and insurance information
✔️ Addressing immediate safety and liability concerns
✔️ Notifying the appropriate organizations and institutions
✔️ Keeping detailed records of actions taken and expenses incurred

Many people are surprised to learn that estate administration often takes longer than expected. Taking a methodical approach and maintaining clear communication with beneficiaries can help reduce stress and avoid complications later.

While the responsibilities of an executor can feel overwhelming, focusing on a few foundational steps in the first month can help protect the estate, preserve assets, and ensure the deceased’s wishes are carried out.

At Hagel Lawfirm, we regularly assist executors and families with navigating the estate administration process and understanding their legal responsibilities during this challenging time.

If you have questions about estate administration, probate, or executor duties, our team is here to help.

Many parents add their adult children to the title of their home to avoid probate or simplify estate planning. However, ...
05/13/2026

Many parents add their adult children to the title of their home to avoid probate or simplify estate planning. However, a recent Ontario case highlights the serious risks involved.

An elderly mother transferred her home into joint tenancy with her son as part of her estate plan. After their relationship deteriorated, she attempted to regain full ownership, claiming undue influence and resulting trust.

The Court dismissed her claim, finding that she intended to gift the property interest to her son and had received independent legal advice at the time of the transfer.

This case is an important reminder that adding a child to title is a legal transfer of ownership not simply an estate planning tool. Once a gift is made, it may not be reversed.

Before transferring property ownership, obtain proper legal advice to understand the long-term legal and family implications.

Contact Hagel Lawfirm to book your legal consultation. 905-990-3440

Wishing our clients, colleagues, and community a joyful and peaceful Easter.May this season of renewal bring happiness, ...
04/05/2026

Wishing our clients, colleagues, and community a joyful and peaceful Easter.

May this season of renewal bring happiness, prosperity, and a fresh perspective for the months ahead. At Hagel Lawfirm, we continue to stand by you in planning for a secure future.

Happy Easter! 🌸🐣

At Hagel Lawfirm, nothing means more to us than the trust our clients place in our team.A sincere thank you to Steven Ba...
03/16/2026

At Hagel Lawfirm, nothing means more to us than the trust our clients place in our team.

A sincere thank you to Steven Bailey for sharing such kind words about his experience with our firm. We are grateful for the opportunity to assist in the Crown Crest Capital class action matter, and we appreciate your patience throughout the process.

Your feedback motivates us to continue advocating for our clients with dedication and integrity. Thank you again for your trust in Hagel Lawfirm.

Many parents add an adult child to their bank account for convenience to help pay bills, manage finances, or assist as t...
03/04/2026

Many parents add an adult child to their bank account for convenience to help pay bills, manage finances, or assist as they get older.

But an important legal question often arises later: Does the child automatically inherit the money when the parent passes away?

Simply being added as a joint account holder does not automatically mean the funds belong to the child after death. Courts often look at the intention of the parent when the account was created.

Without clear documentation, disputes can arise among family members. This is why proper estate planning is essential. Clear instructions in your Will and documentation about joint accounts can help avoid confusion, conflict, and costly litigation.

If you are considering adding a child to your bank account or have questions about joint ownership and estate planning it is important to get legal guidance.

Contact Hagel Lawfirm to book your consultation. 905-990-3440

Thank you, Joe, for your kind words and for allowing Hagel Lawfirm to assist you with Real Estate closing, Estate admini...
02/25/2026

Thank you, Joe, for your kind words and for allowing Hagel Lawfirm to assist you with Real Estate closing, Estate administration, and Probate application. We understand how important it is for families to feel supported and confident during these times. We are grateful to be recognized for our thorough and professional approach.

Thank you for the trust you’ve placed in our team. We truly appreciate it.

Yesterday was Family Day, and I hope you all had the chance to spend meaningful time with the people who matter most.Fam...
02/17/2026

Yesterday was Family Day, and I hope you all had the chance to spend meaningful time with the people who matter most.

Family Day is a reminder that beyond our busy schedules and professional commitments, it’s our families who give our lives purpose and stability. As an estate planning lawyer, I see every day how important it is not only to cherish family moments but also to protect them.

Estate planning isn’t just about documents. It’s about:
• Ensuring your loved ones are taken care of
• Protecting the wealth you’ve worked hard to build
• Minimizing stress and conflict during difficult times
• Leaving behind clarity, not confusion

The conversations we avoid today often become the challenges our families face tomorrow. Taking proactive steps such as drafting a Will, setting up Powers of Attorney, or creating a comprehensive estate plan is one of the most meaningful ways to show care and responsibility.

Family Day may be once a year, but protecting your family is a lifelong commitment.

If you’ve been putting off your estate planning, consider this your reminder to take the next step. Your future self and your family will thank you.

Contact Hagel Lawfirm to book your consultation. 905-990-3440

Please Note: This Post is for information purposes only and should not be considered as legal advice.

Being named an Estate Trustee (Executor) is an important responsibility, and often more complex than many people expect....
02/06/2026

Being named an Estate Trustee (Executor) is an important responsibility, and often more complex than many people expect.

An Estate Trustee’s key duties include:
✔️ Locating and securing estate assets
✔️ Applying for probate (Certificate of Appointment)
✔️ Paying debts, expenses, and taxes of the estate
✔️ Filing estate and trust tax returns with the CRA
✔️ Keeping accurate records and accounts
✔️ Distributing assets to beneficiaries in accordance with the Will

Estate Trustees have a fiduciary duty to act honestly, prudently, and in the best interests of the beneficiaries and may be held personally liable if mistakes are made.

At Hagel Lawfirm, we assist Estate Trustees at every stage of estate administration, helping them understand their obligations, manage risk, and carry out their role with confidence.

📞 If you’ve been appointed an Estate Trustee, professional guidance can make all the difference. CONTACT Hagel Lawfirm to book an appointment. 905-990-3440

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than memory, it impacts decision-making, independence, and the lives of families who st...
01/26/2026

Alzheimer’s disease affects more than memory, it impacts decision-making, independence, and the lives of families who step in to help. As we raise awareness, it’s also a reminder of how important it is to plan ahead.

At Hagel Lawfirm, we often see how conditions like Alzheimer’s can change circumstances unexpectedly. Having a Will, Powers of Attorney, and a comprehensive estate plan in place ensures your wishes are respected and your loved ones are empowered to act on your behalf if "capacity" becomes an issue.

Estate planning isn’t just about assets, it’s about peace of mind during difficult times.

Alzheimer’s Awareness encourages important conversations today that can protect families tomorrow.

💜 Planning early is an act of care for yourself and for the people you love.

Address

272 Lakeshore Road East
Mississauga, ON
L5G1H1

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 5pm
Tuesday 9am - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 5pm
Friday 9am - 5pm

Website

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Hagel Lawfirm posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Shortcuts

Share

Category