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 MoreOne of the most important property-related issues that must be dealt with during a separation and/or divorce is the equalization of net family property. In a nutshell, Ontario’s property equalization scheme provides that when two people enter into a marriage, each spouse becomes automatically entitled to an equal share of the profits of the marriage. …
Read MoreIn a previous blog post, we explored the meaning of joint custody and reviewed some scenarios in which it would be the appropriate custodial situation for a child. Joint custody gives both parents full decision-making authority and responsibility in all areas respecting the child. Major decisions regarding the child’s health, education, and well-being are made together. We explained …
Read MoreBuying property is expensive. Nowadays, many first time buyers are assisted by the kind contribution of parents or in-laws. If someone in your family is generous enough to provide you with funds, make it clear whether these monies are a gift or a loan. It can make a difference down the line if the marriage …
Read MoreIn a recent decision of the Ontario Superior Court of Justice (Noel v. Noel), the Court awarded spousal support to Mr. Noel, finding that he was entitled to this award on both a compensatory and non-compensatory basis. Spousal Support Awards: Divorce Act and Guidance from the Supreme Court of Canada When making an order requiring …
Read MoreThe term “co-parenting” generally refers to a situation where two parents work together to raise a child even though they are divorced, separated or no longer living together. Co-parenting can be very challenging, even when there is little or no acrimony between the parents. Managing a child’s appointments, activities, schooling, health, chores, playdates, etc. under one …
Read MoreI have arrived. A new building. A new office. A new parking lot. A new document management system. Even a new iPhone. My new mantra is change is good. If I say it enough times, it becomes the truth, right? My last day at Basman Smith LLP was Friday, August 12, 2016. Then I took …
Read MoreFollowing a case conference, parties to a family law proceeding (Michelon v. Ryder) reached a comprehensive agreement on a final order. The Court noted that the agreement was an excellent result for all involved. However, the Court questioned its jurisdiction to include a term in the order requiring the parties to submit to secondary arbitration. …
Read MoreDeciding to end a relationship or marriage is never easy. It can be especially difficult if you have a partner with narcissistic personality disorder. In a previous blog we recommended a few ways to keep your distance and your cool when dealing with a narcissistic ex. But what about before that? What if you’re still in …
Read MoreDivorce is hard on kids of all ages. Common sense tells us that we need to be supportive and extra attentive to our children during periods of change and upheaval in their lives. You know your child best. You know how to comfort them and parent with kindness and compassion, but it may be difficult …
Read More
