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REPRESENTATION AGREEMENT & ADVANCE DIRECTIVE IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

What Are They & Why They Matter

When you plan for the possibility of future incapacity,
two key legal tools in British Columbia let you preserve control and peace of mind:

A Representation Agreement allows you to appoint a trusted person (your “representative”) to make decisions about your health care, personal care, and in some limited cases routine financial matters, if you become unable to make those decisions yourself.

An Advance Directive (sometimes called a “health care directive”) lets you set out your specific medical wishes in writing, instructions that health care providers must follow when you can no longer communicate.

Together, they form a crucial part of what is often called “advance care planning”, ensuring your values and wishes are respected, and reducing uncertainty and conflict for loved ones.

Types of Representation Agreements in BC

Representation Agreements in British Columbia are governed by the Representation Agreement Act. There are two main forms people use: Section 7 (RA7) and Section 9 (RA9)

  • RA7 (Section 7)
Who Can Use It
Someone who may already have mild cognitive or decision-making challenges
Scope & Limits
Permits “routine management” authority: health care, personal care, and some limited financial or legal acts (but not full major financial or property transactions)
When It’s Appropriate
Useful when some capacity is already uncertain, or to provide a safety net before more serious incapacity
  • RA9 (Section 9)
Who Can Use It
Someone who is fully capable at the time of signing and understands the legal consequences.
Scope & Limits
Broad authority over health care, personal care, facility admission, and living arrangements; it does not automatically include financial authority.
When It’s Appropriate
Ideal when you’re sure you fully understand and want your representative to act broadly for your health and personal care.

Note: Representation agreements do not automatically include power over real estate, large financial decisions, or legal matters outside routine affairs — those usually require a separate enduring power of attorney or other documents.

Advance Directive:
Your Health Care Wishes in Writing

An Advance Directive is your opportunity to document your medical preferences ahead of time for example:
  • Which life-sustaining treatments you would or would not want
  • Whether you consent to or refuse specific procedures
  • Your preferences for pain management or comfort care
  • Treatments you always want or always want avoided

Once the directive is made, health care providers are legally required to follow it, so long as they are aware of it and it is applicable to the situation.

A combined Advance Directive and Representation Agreement form (Section 9) is available in BC. It lets you revoke previous documents, name your representative, and set care instructions in one document.

THE PROCESS

How the Process Works (Step by Step)
  • Initial Consultation & Assessment
    We begin with a conversation: your health values, beliefs, fears, family situation, and future care goals.
  • Decide on the Right Structure
    Based on your capacity and objectives, we’ll recommend whether RA7, RA9, Advance Directive, or a combination is best.
  • Drafting the Document
    We prepare the agreement and directive with clear language, tailored powers, safeguards, alternates, monitors, or conditions as needed.
  • Signing & Witnessing
    The documents must be signed by you and witnessed (by qualified individuals). In some cases, a notary or legal professional may also certify them.
  • Distribution & Storage
    You receive original executed documents. We guide where to store them safely and how to share copies with your representative(s), health care providers, and family.
  • Review & Update
    Life changes — health, relationships, values — can warrant amendments. You can revoke or change your plan any time while you are capable.

WHY WORK WITH SIMA MAZAREI FOR THIS PLANNING

Trusted Notary Public in the heart of North Vancouver

Specialized Notary & Legal Experience:

With over two decades in legal, financial, and notarial practice, I bring knowledge and care to your personal planning.

Personalized Service:

I take time with each client to understand your values, family dynamics and health goals.

Smooth & Compliant Execution

I know the BC forms, legal formalities, witnessing rules, and ensure your documents are valid and durable.

Ongoing Support:

I assist with future amendments, reviews, storage, and ensuring your representative and family know how to use them.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Don’t leave your future care to chance. Contact us today to schedule a consultation. We will:

  • Explain your options (RA7, RA9, Advance Directive)
  • Help you select your representative(s) and alternate(s)
  • Draft and execute legally binding documents
  • Guide on storage, distribution, and future updates
Let us help you build peace of mind, clarity, and control.