The 2025 Annotated Power of Attorney for Property and for Personal Care took place on on January 23, 2025, co-chaired by Alexander Procope of PBP Lawyers alongside Alexandra Manthorpe of Cunningham, Swan, Carty, Little & Bonham LLP.
The program featured a series of insightful sessions led by several of Ontario’s thought leaders. The panels spoke to various topics including:
- Powers of Attorney Basics and Annotations: Presented by the co-chairs, this panel provided introductory comments on the authority of Powers of Attorney and their execution requirements.
- Using AI and Technological Tools for Drafting POAs: Moderated by Alexander Procope, with panelists Jordan Atin of Hull & Hull LLP and Safiyya Vankalwala from LAWPRO, this discussion explored the advantages and considerations of integrating artificial intelligence and technology into the drafting solicitor’s work.
- Personal Care: Broadening the Planning Discussion: Moderated by Alexandra Manthorpe, the panel included Kristine Anderson of Fern Law, Jennifer Corak of WeirFoulds LLP, and Jane Meadus from the Advocacy Centre for the Elderly. The session delved into comprehensive planning to enhance the services we can provide on drafting powers of attorney for personal care.
- Property: Dependants, Gifts, and Dealing with Banks: Moderated by Alexandra Manthorpe, this segment with panelists Shawn Richard and Robin Spurr addressed some more complex issues when dealing with the authority and duties of an attorney for property and interactions with family members and banks.
- Mitigating Risk and Post-Drafting Issues: Moderated by Alexander Procope, this panel including Pia Hundal and Anya-Deane Best discussed how the planning lawyer’s file is used in POA-related litigation, capacity assessments, directions regarding the release of the POAs or file and retention periods.
Judging by the many questions from the audience, this was an engaging and well received program. It is worth viewing on webcast once it is available as a refreshor or introduction to these powerful documents for Ontario Lawyers.
For more details about the program, please visit the Law Society of Ontario’s 2025 Annotated Power of Attorney event page.
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