Frequently Asked Questions

Elder law focuses on legal matters affecting older adults, including estate planning, health care directives, residential care, and age-related rights. It ensures seniors and their families have plans in place to address changing needs and maintain dignity as circumstances evolve.

To create or update a will in Ontario, you must be at least 18, of sound mind, and sign the document in front of two witnesses. Our team guides you through drafting clear instructions for distribution of your belongings and appointing an executor to carry out your wishes.

A property power of attorney appoints someone to manage organizational and legal affairs, while a personal care power of attorney covers health care decisions. Establishing both ensures trusted individuals act on your behalf if you are unable to make decisions yourself.

A health care directive, or living will, allows you to outline treatment preferences and appoint a substitute decision-maker. Our lawyers help you complete the required forms, explain medical terminology, and ensure your values are reflected in legal documents.

It’s wise to review your estate plan whenever there’s a major life change such as marriage, divorce, a new child, or a significant shift in health status. Regular reviews keep documents current and aligned with your goals.

While long-term care expenses are common, strategic planning can help preserve your estate. We explore tools such as family trusts and public benefit programs to manage potential care costs while working to maintain financial comfort for you and your loved ones.

Guardianship is a court-appointed role to make personal care decisions when someone lacks capacity, while trusteeship covers property management. Our firm assists with applications and hearings to ensure fair representation aligned with your interests.

Seniors may encounter issues with tenancy rights, long-term care contracts, or retirement home agreements. We review residence agreements, negotiate terms, and address disputes to help you maintain secure and suitable housing.

While we do not provide organizational advising, our legal team can clarify the legal framework around public pension benefits, government programs, and tax implications, ensuring you understand how to integrate legal documents with your retirement arrangements.

Capacity assessments are conducted by qualified health professionals who evaluate comprehension and decision-making ability. Results inform legal documents like powers of attorney and can guide the court in support applications when needed.

Digital presence planning involves listing online accounts, passwords, and instructions for accessing social media, email, and cloud storage. We draft provisions to appoint a digital executor, ensuring your digital legacy is managed as you wish.

Blended families face unique distribution and guardianship questions. We help you create tailored plans that balance support for current spouses and children from prior relationships, reducing the risk of misunderstandings.

The timeline varies with document complexity and the need for customized solutions. Most standard will and power of attorney packages can be completed in a few weeks, while more intricate arrangements may require additional time for detailed review.