FAMILY LAW & LEGAL CONTRACTS
Services
We are committed to support the objectives of our clients whether they are looking for a cohabitation agreement, marriage contract, a separation agreement, or a divorce. We have extensive experience working with a broad range of family law clients requiring assistance with complex financial and child-related issues to simple uncontested divorce.
Cohabitation Agreements &
Marriage Contracts
For Cohabitation Agreements or Marriage Contracts, the Collaborative process makes it possible for couples entering new committed relationships to have what otherwise might seem to be “awkward” discussions in a setting that normalizes such topics. For many couples, it may be difficult to broach the topic of a Cohabitation Agreement or Marriage Contract because it tends to be uncomfortable for the couple to have this type of a discussion with neither one wanting an adverse inference to be drawn by making the suggestion.
Separation
Agreements
For separation and divorces, instead of one spouse working against the other, both sides are united in striving to find the best resolution for the family “in transition” with the professional team offering guidance as to how to achieve this in the most respectful way. Each spouse will have a personal collaboratively trained lawyer who will offer guidance and legal advice during the process. In most instances, the Collaborative professional team, includes a neutral jointly retained family professional, and/or a financial professional depending on the situation. This team of professionals all work together, with the clients, to achieve the best possible outcome for the family, not just during the period of transition, but also to look beyond the present date with concern for the future.
Collaborative Family
Law Resolutions
We are committed to support the objectives of our family law clients whether they are looking for a cohabitation agreement, marriage contract, a separation agreement, or a divorce. We have extensive experience working with a broad range of clients requiring assistance with complex financial and child-related issues to simple uncontested divorce.
Parenting Plans
& Agreements
Clients with children benefit from having a Parenting Plan as a part of their Separation Agreement. While the plan will likely vary depending on the age and stage of children and the needs of the parents regarding the level of detail, most appreciate the certainty and predictability in an otherwise uncertain time, for regular residency schedules and holiday time to be set out. To reach a mutually agreed upon parenting plan, some clients may choose to retain a family professional (with an abundance of experience) to collaborate with each parent, (and possibly with the lawyers) to develop a “child-focused” parenting plan with the best interests of the children are paramount. These agreements may include outlines of holiday schedules, regular time-sharing, and special occasions. Lawyers can also draft and finalize parenting plans, offering clients the opportunity to co-parent in an improved way.
Child & Spousal
Support
Depending on your unique circumstances, following a separation, it may be necessary to address and resolve issues related to child support and /or spousal support. These issues are addressed in a manner wherein the parties to the agreement can make decisions after learning about their respective rights and obligations as provided for in the applicable legislation and common law.
Equalization of Net
Family Property
The purpose of the equalization of Net Family Property is to determine and calculate the value of each former partner’s assets and debts, at the date of separation (valuation date) in accordance with the Family Law Act. These calculations require the cooperation of both parties to the agreement and are determined following the exchange of financial disclosure. The lawyers assist by sharing legal model examples and exploring “custom-fit” resolutions that are set out in detail in the final settlement.
Representation in
Mediation & Arbitration
As a collaborative lawyer, I have made the decision (after many years) to no longer participate in Court proceedings. I will refer you to a litigation lawyer, if it is necessary for your matter to be decided by a Judge, otherwise, if preferred, we may explore alternative dispute remedy processes such as mediation and/or arbitration as a means to settle disputes, and I am honoured to represent many clients in this capacity.
Notary/Commissioner
We do offer notarizations and/or commissioning of documents.