Court-appointed guardianship · Ottawa, Ontario

Ontario Guardianship Lawyers Serving Ottawa Families

When a family member can no longer manage their finances or personal care, and no powers of attorney are in place, Ontario law provides a way for you to step in and protect them. MZS Lawyers guides families through court-appointed guardianship applications — clearly, compassionately, and without unnecessary complexity.

Our services

Two types of court-appointed guardianship

Ontario law recognises guardianship of property and guardianship of the person as separate court orders. Many families need only one. We can help with both.

Guardian of property

Managing finances & assets

When a loved one can no longer handle their banking, bills, real estate, or investments, a court-appointed Guardian of Property steps in to manage those decisions on their behalf.

Learn about property guardianship →
Guardian of the person

Personal care decisions

When someone can no longer decide where they live, what medical care they receive, or how their daily needs are met, a Guardian of the Person can be appointed by the court.

Learn about personal care guardianship →
Why families choose MZS Lawyers

Experienced. Ottawa-based. Plain-spoken.

01

Civil litigation experience

Our practice spans civil litigation including contested guardianship proceedings. We are comfortable in court when your matter requires it.

02

Ottawa-based, Ontario-wide

We serve families throughout Ottawa and the surrounding region, with flexible consultation options to fit your schedule and circumstances. If your application is unopposed, we can appear anywhere in Ontario.

03

Plain-language guidance

Guardianship law is complex. We translate it into clear steps so you always know where you stand and what comes next — no jargon, no surprises.

How it works

What to expect

Every guardianship application is unique, but most follow these four broad stages. We handle the complexity at every step.

1

Initial consultation

We review your situation, explain your options, and advise whether guardianship is the right path.

2

Capacity assessment

We coordinate with a qualified Capacity Assessor to obtain the formal assessment the court requires.

3

Application & plan

We draft the court application, affidavit, and your Management or Guardianship Plan, and serve all required parties.

4

Court order

We represent you at the hearing and, once appointed, advise you on your ongoing duties as guardian.

Ready to talk through your situation?

We offer consultations to help you understand your options before committing to any course of action.

Contact us today
Have questions?

We have answers.

From what guardianship actually means to how long it takes and what it costs — our FAQ page covers the questions families ask most.

Read the FAQ