Guardianship Disputes in Ontario: How Bobila Walker Law Protects Families in Barrie, Oshawa, and Toronto

When a loved one can no longer make personal or financial decisions, families often turn to guardianship as a way to protect their best interests. But in Ontario, guardianship disputes can quickly become complex, emotional, and legally challenging—especially when family members disagree on who should take responsibility.

At Bobila Walker Law, we are Ontario guardianship lawyers who help families throughout Barrie, Oshawa, Toronto, and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) resolve disputes with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

What Is a Guardianship in Ontario?

In Ontario, a guardianship is a court-appointed role that allows a trusted individual to make personal care or property decisions for someone who is mentally incapable of doing so themselves. This may involve managing finances, making medical choices, or handling day-to-day affairs.

Guardianships are governed by the Substitute Decisions Act, 1992 (SDA), and can apply to:

  • Adults with diminished capacity due to dementia, brain injury, or disability

  • Elderly individuals needing financial oversight

  • Situations where no Power of Attorney is in place

If disagreements arise about who should serve as guardian—or whether guardianship is even necessary—legal guidance becomes essential.

Common Guardianship Disputes in Ontario

Guardianship disputes often occur when well-meaning family members disagree on what’s best for a vulnerable loved one. At Bobila Walker Law, we commonly handle cases involving:

  • Contested Guardianship Applications – Competing family members or caregivers applying for guardianship of the same person.

  • Challenges to Capacity Assessments – Disputes over whether the individual truly lacks decision-making ability.

  • Allegations of Mismanagement or Abuse – Claims that a guardian has mishandled money or failed to act in the ward’s best interests.

  • Family Conflict and Communication Breakdowns – Disagreements among siblings or extended family about care or finances.

Our role is to protect the rights of both the vulnerable person and the family members involved, ensuring decisions align with Ontario law and the person’s true needs.

How Courts Resolve Guardianship Disputes

When guardianship disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation or mediation, Ontario courts—such as the Superior Court of Justice—step in to decide. The court may:

  • Review medical and capacity assessments

  • Appoint a Capacity Assessor or Public Guardian and Trustee (PGT)

  • Consider evidence from all parties

  • Appoint a guardian who acts in the best interests of the individual

These proceedings can be emotionally charged and procedurally complex. Having a skilled guardianship lawyer ensures that your rights are protected, and that the vulnerable person’s wellbeing remains the focus.

How Bobila Walker Law Helps Families Across Ontario

At Bobila Walker Law, we focus exclusively on guardianship and capacity law in Ontario. Our lawyers represent clients across Barrie, Oshawa, Toronto, and surrounding areas in all aspects of guardianship disputes, including:

  • Preparing and filing guardianship applications under the SDA

  • Defending or challenging existing guardianships

  • Representing families in capacity hearings and appeals

  • Guiding clients through mediation to avoid costly litigation

We understand that guardianship issues are not just legal—they’re deeply personal. Our approach combines compassionate advocacy with strategic, results-driven representation.

Why Choose Bobila Walker Law?

✅ Focused Expertise – We concentrate on guardianship, capacity, and elder law in Ontario.
✅ Local Knowledge – We serve clients throughout Barrie, Oshawa, Toronto, and the GTA, with a deep understanding of regional court practices.
✅ Compassionate Representation – We treat every case with sensitivity and respect for family dynamics.
✅ Results-Oriented Approach – Whether through negotiation or court action, we pursue fair and lasting solutions.

Speak with an Ontario Guardianship Lawyer Today

If your family is facing a guardianship dispute in Barrie, Oshawa, Toronto, or anywhere in Ontario, Bobila Walker Law can help. We’ll ensure your loved one’s rights and dignity are protected every step of the way.

Contact our Managing Partner Daniel Walker at daniel@bobilawalkerlaw.com