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ARTICLE · 16 APRIL 2020

Virtual Signatures For Wills And Powers Of Attorney Now Allowed

Gardiner Roberts LLP
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As the COVID-19 health emergency continues to create financial uncertainty because of the shutdown of non-essential businesses, layoffs and reductions in pay, it is understandable that people are concerned...

CanadaCoronavirus (COVID-19)
Lindsay Ann Histrop
Lindsay Ann Histrop
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As the COVID-19 health emergency continues to create financial uncertainty because of the shutdown of non-essential businesses, layoffs and reductions in pay, it is understandable that people are concerned about their financial well-being and making sure that they have a Last Will and Testament and, or at least, a Power of Attorney for Property and Power of Attorney for Personal Care.

Although under Ontario law, there are strict requirements for the execution and witnessing of these estate planning tools, on April 7, 2020, the Ontario government relaxed the restrictions for obtaining signatures in Wills and Powers of Attorneys.

Whereas under the Succession Law Reform Act and Substitute Decisions Act, these documents had required execution in the physical presence of attesting witnesses at the same time, the Ontario government, through Ontario Regulation 129/20, has now permitted for the duration of the emergency to allow for signatures on a Will and Power of

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