No, you are not legally required to use a lawyer to prepare a Power of Attorney in Ontario. You may draft it yourself using online resources and templates. Affordable resources such as Legal Line Documents can guide you through the process.

To make a Power of Attorney you must be:

• Mentally capable
• At least 16 years old to make a Power of Attorney for Personal Care
• At least 18 years old to make a Power of Attorney for Property

The document must also meet specific legal standards required in Ontario, including:

• The document must be in writing
• The person must be mentally capable when signing
• There must be two witnesses, and the witnesses must also sign the document – certain people cannot act as witnesses, including:
  • Your attorney, or your attorney’s spouse or partner
  • Your own spouse or partner
  • Your child
  • A person who is less than 18 years old

While not required, you may consult a lawyer if your wishes involve specific or complex medical instructions.

Create your Power of Attorney

Planning for the unexpected can be stressful, but having a Power of Attorney for Personal Care and Power of Attorney for Property help make sure your wishes are followed and someone can handle your affairs if you’re unable to. It also reduces stress and uncertainty for your family. Create your Power of Attorney quickly and affordably with Legal Line Documents. Without one, important decisions can be delayed when they’re needed most.

Start now—it only takes a few minutes.

								
You now have 3 options:
								

									
More answers about Wills, Estates and Powers of Attorney
									
Master List: 2,500 Legal Answers
																													
																		
Government Links