In the estates context, undue influence is often alleged in order to challenge a will or an inter vivos transfer of property, often a family home or cottage. When a party in a legal dispute alleges that there was undue influence which party bears the burden of proving (or disproving)…
Recently, an elderly patient suffering from moderate-to-advanced stage dementia, with behavioural complications, was hospitalized on a psychiatric admission. The patient, who was declared incapable to consent to treatment, was initially held involuntarily under the Mental Health Act, RSO 1990, C M.7 (the “MHA”). The patient had appointed a cousin as…
On June 20, 2024, I attended the annual Ontario Bar Association’s Elder Law Day, where several informative presentations noted the rise in personal care disputes. Speakers also explored approaches that lawyers might consider to manage these disputes. The presentations triggered me to write about common issues we see related to…
A question that often arises when discussing powers of attorney is whether to appoint the same person as the decision maker for property and personal care. although the roles are distinct at law, in practical terms there is a great deal of overlap. There are advantages of appointing the same…
The small business deduction is a key tax incentive for entrepreneurs of small businesses. If the corporation qualifies as a Canadian controlled private corporation (commonly referred to as CCPC), the net federal tax rate for active business income is 9% on the first $500,000. The Income Tax Act (the “Act“)…
In Ventura v Ventura, 2022 ONSC 6351 (“Ventura”), the Court dealt with a number of issues relating to the duties and obligations of attorneys for property. In Ventura, “A”, “L”, and “E” were appointed as joint attorneys for property and personal care of their mother, “M”. In 2012, M was…
I happened to be on my google machine earlier today, doing a quick search of “activation of powers of attorney”. I found a rather upsetting website belonging to a member of the bar suggesting that a power of attorney ought to be activated “if the grantor dies”, and so here…
A guardian or attorney for personal care has a duty to make decisions in accordance with an incapable person’s wishes or instructions as they were when the person was capable. The guardian or attorney also has an obligation to try and ascertain such wishes and instructions. If it is impossible…
This blog has been written by Mohena Singh [Associate] at Fasken LLP As we near the new year and reflect on another holiday season, many of us may have used this time to spend with family and friends or catch up on some much needed rest and recovery. This time…
It is just as important to know the limitations of a power of attorney for personal care as it is to know your responsibilities.