Wills and Planning for Blended Families in Manitoba: Protecting Everyone You Love

Blended families—bringing together children from previous relationships under one roof—have become increasingly common in Manitoba. While these families create wonderful new bonds, they also require special consideration when planning for the future.

Manitoba’s Unique Legal Considerations

In Manitoba, marriage automatically revokes a previous will unless that will explicitly states it was made in contemplation of the marriage. Many people are unaware of this rule and mistakenly believe their existing will remains valid after remarrying.

Additionally, if you pass away without a valid will in Manitoba, provincial laws dictate how your assets will be distributed—typically prioritizing your current spouse. This could inadvertently leave children from previous relationships with little or no inheritance.

Essential Strategies for Blended Families

The foundation of any good plan for a blended family is a comprehensive will. Your will should clearly name all children from current and previous relationships, identify who receives specific assets, and address sentimental items and family heirlooms. Without this clarity, misunderstandings and hurt feelings can arise during an already difficult time.

Another effective approach is including life interest provisions in your will. These give your spouse the right to use certain assets, like the family home, during their lifetime, while ensuring these assets ultimately pass to your children. This approach provides security for your spouse while protecting your children’s inheritance and preventing assets from being redirected away from your intended beneficiaries.

Don’t forget about assets that pass outside of your will. Many people overlook that life insurance, RRSPs, TFSAs, and pension plans all have separate beneficiary designations. Make sure these align with your overall plan for your blended family to avoid unintended consequences.

Taking Action

Planning for a blended family doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by taking inventory of your assets and considering your goals. Then consult with a lawyer who understands Manitoba’s laws and has experience with blended families.

At TLR Law, we understand the nuances of planning for blended families in Manitoba. We’re here to help you create a plan that protects everyone you love and preserves family harmony for generations to come.