Family Law

Ending a relationship is never easy, but when children are involved, the process becomes even more complex. Co-parenting after separation requires careful planning, clear communication, and a commitment to prioritizing the well-being of the children. Understanding your rights and responsibilities, creating a parenting plan, and maintaining a respectful co-parenting relationship are key to making this […]

If you have ever been involved in spousal support matters, you will have heard of the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines, also known as the “SSAGs.” The 2024 decision of Rathee v. Rathee, 2024 ONCA 912 is a firm reminder from the Court of Appeal for Ontario (“ONCA”) of the importance of the SSAGs. In this

When parents of adult children with disabilities divorce, legal questions can arise about decision-making rights and parental responsibilities. In a recent case, J.F.R. v. K.L.L., the Ontario Court of Appeal addressed whether an adult with Down Syndrome (referred to in the decision as “M”) could be considered a “child of the marriage” under the Divorce

People frequently ask us “when am I legally separated?” or “how to I legally separate?” In Ontario there is no formal process to declare you are separated. You can be considered legally separated as soon as you take actions to end your relationship, be it a marriage or a common law relationship.  The most obvious

Navigating a co-parenting relationship is difficult at the best of times. It is inevitable that eventually, one or both of you will meet someone new and form a relationship. A successful co-parenting relationship will face a new set of challenges when a new partner is introduced into the lives of your children. If a new

Treat your co-parenting relationship like a business transaction. This may sound like a harsh way to describe raising children as co-parents. However, after separation, there is a job to do that connects you with your former partner. That job is raising your children, your “product” as effectively and successfully as possible. Your former partner is

For families going through a separation, spousal support can be a complex issue.  It is a “hot button” topic that can significantly affect both parties.  Choosing between lump sum spousal support and monthly spousal support is crucial. A lump sum payment can be enticing to both the payor and the recipient. For the recipient, they

Often in Family Law matters the Court may recommend, or the parties may request, the appointment of the Office of the Children’s Lawyer (the “OCL”). The purpose of the OCL it to help children in certain type of legal cases. The OCL may be helpful when an independent third-party opinion and information is needed about

If you have an existing Agreement or Family Court Order that requires your former partner to pay ongoing monthly child (or spousal) support, it may be important to know what your options are if they stop making these payments. In situations where there is an existing domestic contract, such as a Separation Agreement or Parenting