Lessons from the Gene Hackman Estate. When Your Beneficiary Dies First.

In this episode of Billable Banter, the Ballantyne Law team unpacks what happens when a beneficiary doesn't survive the will-maker, using the reported passing of Gene Hackman and his wife as a real-world example. We explain how the Succession Act and common will clauses handle these situations, what happens if no backup beneficiaries are named, and why it's crucial to plan for the "what ifs"—especially in blended families or complex estates. Whether you're reviewing your will or creating one for the first time, this is a must-listen for anyone thinking ahead.