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ARTICLE · 07 APRIL 2020

Substitute Decision Making In A Social Distancing Environment

Blaney McMurtry LLP
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Social distancing restrictions put in place to flatten the curve, and reduce the spread of COVID-19, has broad implications including the implementation and operation of powers of attorney for property and personal care

CanadaLaw Department Performance
Margaret Rintoul
Margaret Rintoul
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Social distancing restrictions put in place to flatten the curve, and reduce the spread of COVID-19, has broad implications including the implementation and operation of powers of attorney for property and personal care. People relying on their appointment as attorneys to help loved ones at this time should be mindful of a few key points.

  • Your duties and responsibilities have not changed due to the crisis. You are still required to act in the best interests of the person who appointed you.
  • Acting in a person's best interest means making decisions as if you were that person, including consideration of religious or other ethical dictates in the case of powers of attorney for personal care. You cannot substitute your opinion just because you disagree.

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