This paper focuses on drafting wills for clients with blended families. It discusses guardianship clauses, child support, spousal support, and children’s trusts. It also provides tips for dealing with RESPs, dower, pensions, life insurance, qualifying disability trusts, and tax planning. As well, tips for preparing enduring powers of attorney and personal directives are also provided. Throughout the paper, sample clauses for wills are included.

This paper is part of a collection presented at LESA’s Drafting Wills and Trusts program held in Edmonton on February 28, 2017 and in Calgary on March 7, 2017.