An emergency “Order In Council” was made on April 7, 2020, under s. 7.1 of the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act regarding the virtual commissioning and execution of wills.
Read the emergency order here: https://www.ontario.ca/search/orders-in-council
Now, by order under s. 7.0.2(4), of Ontario’s Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act, witnessing of wills and powers of attorney may be virtual (by “audio visual” means), provided that at least one person who is providing the service as a witness is a licensee pursuant to Ontario’s the Law Society Act (i.e., a lawyer or licensed paralegal).
“Audio visual communication technology” means any electronic method of communication in which participants are able to see, hear and communicate with each other in real time.
The Order is not retroactive and will be in place for the duration of the declaration of emergency.
