In British Columbia, the Representation Agreement Act came into effect in 2000.

Living Wills "fit" within a Representation Agreement which allows you to appoint someone to make financial, legal, health and personal care decisions for you if you can't. The Representation Agreement addresses all powers of attorney – health care, financial and property – in one document.

A representation agreement has no effect unless it is registered by the registrar in accordance with the regulations in the act. However, a proxy may exercise the authority in the agreement even before it is registered if it is necessary to protect the patient's interests.

Helpful Resources:

It’s Your Choice: A Guide To Making A Representation Agreement
published by the Public Guardian and Trustee of BC

Quick links to the Nidus Personal Planning Resource Centre and Registry (a non-profit, Charitable Society):

• Where does my living will fit?
• Where do I get a Representation agreement form?