What is Legal Separation?

When a marriage isn’t working out, and a couple is ready to move on from the relationship, many people automatically assume that divorce is the next step in ending the marriage. There is a law in Ontario that states couples must be legally separated for at least one year before they can file for divorce. So, what is a legal separation? Here’s what you need to know. What is a legal separation?...

Ending a Common-Law Relationship? Here’s What You Need to Know

Living together without getting married doesn’t make a relationship any less valid, and those relationships experience the same issues and roadblocks that legally married couples do. Those relationships can also come to an end – even after years together. The process for ending a common-law relationship is not exactly the same as going through a divorce, but there are some important things...

Separating During COVID-19: 5 Things to Consider

The added stress and anxiety caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has taken its toll on many Canadian marriages, and we have certainly seen an increase in the number of separations and divorces. But separating during a pandemic brings its own challenges. The following are a few things that you should consider if you are going through a separation during COVID: 1. Consider your divorce options Most...

Managing Your Child’s Expectations While Separated During COVID

The COVID-19 has put stress on all parents in ways that many could not expect. For parents already dealing with the stress associated with being separated and having to come to agreements with their ex over co-parenting issues, there are some unique challenges. Children may find that their routine is disrupted, and expectations may have to be managed. The following are a few tips to help your...

Going Into the Holiday Season After a Divorce and What to Expect

Divorce – even if it is mutual and reasonably amicable – can be a stressful and painful process. In fact, some say that going through a divorce is similar to experiencing a death in the family. There is a time of grief and transition. And if you are going into the holiday season after a recent divorce, instead of being a happy and joyful time, the holidays can intensify feelings of sadness...

Family Lawyer Fees in Ontario – How Much Does a Divorce Cost in Canada?

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Dividing Gifts During a Divorce

What’s Mine is Yours… Or, Is It? Dividing up gifts during divorce proceedings is not always an easy task. Amicable Settlements are Best for Both Parties Divorce is much more than a simple break up. After years of living together and building one life from two, splitting up can come down to splitting hairs over property, money, and personal belongings that each person believes are their own....

Survive the Divorce by Knowing Your Rights & Obligations

The basic guidelines for dissolution of marriage are subject to the Divorce Act. Additionally, Canada’s Constitution mandates that the federal and provincial governments establish jurisdiction over family law. This creates a complex tangle of laws that make it confusing to ascertain your specific rights and obligations when seeking or responding to a divorce. Divorce Law is Multifaceted When...

When Couples Don’t Want to Stay Married, is Divorce the Only Option?

Not All Couples Live Happily Ever After Despite the best of intentions, not all couples live happily ever after.  When couples drift apart, they often think they have two options: stay married and stay miserable; or divorce.   In fact, couples have a third option – a legal separation.   Couples can remain legally married for an indefinite period of time.  Warren Buffet, for example, separated...

Breaking the News: Talking to Your Kids About Divorce

Divorce is frequently difficult and costly. When it comes time to split, couples often argue over blame, assets, and hurt feelings. If the decision is painful for the adults, imagine how children may struggle with the news that mom and dad are getting a divorce. Many parents don’t know when to broach the subject with their children. The Prevalence of Divorce With divorce rates as high as 40%,...