The process of getting a divorce is never an easy ordeal, especially when there are children involved. In some cases, matters may become more complicated when one parent wants to move away from the other, taking the child with them. The consequences of child relocation are often referred to legally as “mobility issues,” and are a complex area within family law. Such a decision demands a careful balance between the custodial parent’s rights to move and the non-custodial parent to maintain a meaningful relationship with their child. In this article, we will discuss the legal implications of chil ..read more

The decision to separate is never an easy one–requiring emotional resilience from both parties involved. A court case can add fuel to the fire, resulting in matters being dragged out with no definitive solution in sight. In cases like these, a separation agreement can be the most effective way to help reach a consensus. This is further outlined in the Family Law Act of Ontario, which states that parties that can agree on the terms of their separation may do so outside of court within an enforceable contract. Matters like child custody, division of assets, and spousal support can all be finaliz ..read more

Co-parenting with someone you no longer share a relationship with can be challenging. According to guidelines laid out under Ontario family law, effective communication between separated parents is not just a recommendation but a cornerstone for fostering a stable environment for the children. Unfortunately, this responsibility is not always understood by both parties. In instances where the separation may have been a messy ordeal, the noncustodial parent refuses to communicate with the custodial parent. They may be unwilling to listen, unresponsive, or absent from their children’s lives altog ..read more

Going through a separation with someone you once shared a close bond with is always difficult. For some couples, particularly those who are married but living separate lives in the same house, those challenges are magnified as they are unable to completely distance themselves from the past. Under Ontario law, partners who have decided to separate but continue to live in the same house may still be classified as being legally separated. This allows them to reap the benefits that come with shared housing without having to live as husband and wife. However, this unique situation also brings a hos ..read more

Narcissistic abuse, which involves emotional and psychological harm, is a critical issue. A 2019 report about spousal violence in Canada highlighted that 11% of individuals had experienced abuse from an ex-partner, and 2% had suffered at the hands of their current spouse. However, victims may find it hard to prove what they’re going through is real in the eyes of the law. Yet, victims must understand how courts recognize and deal with narcissistic abuse. They need this knowledge to get the support and protection they deserve.  This article will offer clear, step-by-step advice on finding ..read more

According to Statista, 40,000 people got divorced in Canada in 2022. Given these figures, a pressing concern for many is what to do before telling the spouse that you want a divorce in a way that’s respectful and minimizes distress.  While there’s no universal solution, taking proactive steps can mitigate potential conflicts during the divorce process. Here are 12 things you should do to make this complicated process as smooth and amicable as possible: 1. Consider Child Custody And Support When you have children, their well-being should be at the forefront of your considerations during a ..read more

If you and your partner are considering a domestic partnership in Canada, it’s important to understand what it means and what legal rights and obligations it entails. A domestic partnership is a legally recognized relationship between two people who live together and share a domestic life, but aren’t married. This type of partnership is available to both same-sex and opposite-sex couples, and it offers many of the same legal protections as marriage. In Canada, the legal recognition of domestic partnerships varies by province and territory. For example, in Nova Scotia, you can register a domest ..read more

If you and your spouse are going through a separation, you may be wondering what happens if they refuse to sign the separation agreement. A separation agreement is a legal document that outlines the roles and responsibilities of each person during a separation. It can cover a wide range of topics, including decision-making responsibility, support payments, and property division. While a separation agreement is not mandatory in Ontario, it can be beneficial if you or your spouse decide to end your marriage. If your spouse refuses to sign the separation agreement, it can be a frustrating and str ..read more

If you’re going through a separation in Ontario, you may be wondering what a separation agreement is and how it can help you. A separation agreement is a legal contract that outlines how you and your partner will divide your assets, debts, and other important issues when you separate. It can be used for both married and common-law couples, and can help to avoid costly court battles. Understanding separation agreements can be overwhelming, but it’s important to know that they are legally binding documents that can have a significant impact on your future. A well-drafted separation agreement can ..read more

Going through a divorce is a difficult time for anyone. If you’re considering a divorce or have already made the decision to pursue one, it’s important to understand the process and your rights under Ontario law. Divorce in Ontario is governed by the federal Divorce Act and Ontario’s Family Law Act, and there are specific steps that must be followed in order to obtain a divorce. To start the divorce process in Ontario, you must meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being legally married, having lived in Ontario for at least one year, and having grounds for divorce. Once you have met t ..read more