Guardian of the Person Lawyer in Ottawa
When a loved one can no longer make personal care decisions and no Power of Attorney for Personal Care exists, Ontario courts can appoint a Guardian of the Person. MZS Lawyers guides Ottawa-area families through this application, including cases where family members disagree about the right course of care.
What a Guardian of the Person does
A court order appointing someone to make personal care decisions — covering health care, housing, nutrition, hygiene, clothing, and safety — for an adult who can no longer make those decisions themselves.
When it is needed
- No valid Power of Attorney for Personal Care exists
- Existing family decision-making is insufficient or disputed
- Critical personal care decisions must be made urgently
- The Health Care Consent Act does not cover the situation
Common situations we see from Ottawa families
- Consenting to surgery or medical treatment
- Arranging placement in a long-term care facility
- Resolving family disputes about care decisions
- Overseeing safety and living arrangements
What we handle for you
- Capacity assessment coordination
- Court application drafting, filed with the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Ottawa
- Guardianship Plan preparation
- Correspondence with the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee
- Service on family members
- Court representation, including contested applications
- Ongoing guardian advice
What you walk away with
A court order specifying your authority as Guardian of the Person, a Guardianship Plan approved by the court, and the legal standing to make personal care decisions — with confidence that you are acting within your authority and in your loved one’s best interests.
Managing finances too? You may also need a Guardian of Property. Read our FAQ or book a consultation.