Estate and Care Planning Services

ESTATE AND CARE
PLANNING SERVICES

Estate and care planning often requires confronting sensitive topics, such as end-of-life considerations and declining health. These discussions can feel delicate or even taboo, leading many to avoid them altogether.

For low-income individuals, these challenges are compounded. In addition to the stigma associated with these discussions, many lack the financial resources to afford legal services or may be unaware of the critical importance of having estate and care planning documents drafted and notarized. The complexity of the legal process can also be intimidating, causing many to hesitate in seeking the assistance they need.

Estate and care planning documents are crucial tools for anyone, regardless of their financial situation. By offering free Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Health Care Directives, we can make legal services accessible, empowering individuals to secure their future and care for their loved ones.

Unfortunately, the statistics in Canada show a troubling gap:

ONLY 48% OF CANADIANS HAVE A WILL IN PLACE.

ONLY 40% OF CANADIANS HAVE A POWER OF ATTORNEY.

REMOVING BARRIERS TO

ESTATE AND CARE PLANNING

At PBSC, we are committed to bridging this gap by making estate and care planning more accessible through two key initiatives: Public Legal Education and Wills Clinics.

PUBLIC LEGAL EDUCATION

Informing people about the importance of Wills, Powers of Attorney, and Health Care Directives

WILLS CLINICS

Offering free, community-based legal assistance to provide eligible individuals with Estate and Care Planning Services

INNOVATIVE RESOURCES

In 2024, with the generous support of RBC Royal Trust, PBSC introduced new resources to strengthen our Chapters’ ability to deliver Wills Clinics and address service gaps in their communities. These resources empower Chapters across Canada to provide essential legal support to those in need.

Together, we are breaking down barriers to justice, giving low-income Canadians the opportunity to plan for their futures with dignity and confidence.

WHAT IS A WILL AND POWER OF ATTORNEY?

A Will outlines how assets will be distributed, while a Power of Attorney designates someone to make financial, healthcare, or legal decisions on behalf of an individual if they are unable to do so. A Health Care Directive (or Living Will) specifies medical preferences and appoints a decision-maker for care in the event of incapacity. (These terms may vary from province to province.)