Last week, I attended the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (Ontario Chapter) conference. It was inspiring and enjoyable to spend time with professionals all of whom work with families going through separation and divorce. There were lawyers and social workers and psychologists and judges. There were individual speakers on topics ranging from challenging clients …
Read MoreSo, school is almost out. My son finishes today at noon. He is one of the many kids counting down the days until he leaves for overnight camp – a countdown that began in September. If you are separated or divorced, here are a few pointers on how to make it easier for your son …
Read MoreParenting co-ordination easing the pain of separation Parents trying to iron out the details of high-conflict separations should communicate like business partners, says family lawyer Jennifer Samara Shuber. “It’s like running the business of the family,” says Shuber, a partner with Basman Smith LLP. “Would you send screaming, swearing emails to your business partner? No. You’d send …
Read MoreGetting into Family Law and Helping Families I have obtained my mediation accreditation from the Ontario Association for Family Mediation. I am now a certified comprehensive family mediator. I can mediate any family law issues, including all property, support and parenting matters. In a nutshell, mediation is a voluntary process where both sides (and their counsel, if represented) work …
Read MoreFamily Law and How it Pertains to Everyone I see lots of unhappy people in my office. Many are first time clients. Clients who have come to meet with me to learn about how the law will impact them. People who have either separated or are considering separation, and want to know their rights. These …
Read MoreCanadian Family Court for the Public In Canada, we have an open court system. That is probably obvious from the daily bombardment of information coming out of two sensational Ontario court cases presently under way: the Jian Ghomeshi sexual assault trial and the trial of Tim Bosma’s alleged killers. People might know that criminal proceedings …
Read MoreA Funny take on Divorce Amy Poehler has written a book called “YES PLEASE”. It is a hilarious, and often wise, account of life, love and the pursuit of happiness. Last night, I read her chapter entitled “My Books on Divorce”. I laughed out loud. As a divorced woman, I could relate to a number …
Read MoreHaving a good attitude during a separation Following separation, you have a choice. You can choose the bitter path, criticizing and devaluing your ex. You can attack your former spouse in public and private. With words and actions, you can blame and punish. Many do. Or, as Ron Burgundy says, you can “stay classy, San …
Read MoreKids need to be heard when parents separate Divorce is not necessarily bad for children. Unresolved conflict, and not divorce, is what harms children and compromises their healthy development. But make no mistake, divorce is tough on children. Plain and simple. Parents need to be aware of, and sensitive to, this fact when moving through …
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