How do I report a suspected abusive attorney for property to Ontario's Public Guardian and Trustee?

If you suspect an attorney acting under a power of attorney for property is misusing their authority or financially abusing the grantor, you can bring your concerns directly to the Public Guardian and Trustee's office, which has authority to look into allegations involving attorneys and guardians and can take protective action where warranted. Being ready with specific, concrete information — what you've observed, relevant dates, financial records or account statements you have access to, and the nature of your relationship to the grantor — makes it easier for the office to assess and act on a report.

The Public Guardian and Trustee can investigate, and depending on what it finds, may take steps ranging from further inquiry to seeking a court order restricting the attorney's authority or ultimately replacing them, particularly where the grantor is incapable and unable to address the misuse themselves. If the grantor is still capable, they generally retain the right to address the situation themselves, including revoking the power of attorney, though they may still benefit from knowing their options. Because these situations can be time-sensitive if assets are actively at risk, get legal advice alongside making a report, rather than relying on the report alone.