In Alberta, child and spousal support are calculated based on the payor’s income. If someone has chosen to work less or take lower paying work, the Court may determine that imputing income to that individual is the appropriate course of action. This has historically been a difficult thing to do …
The more intrinsically human affairs such as parenting schedules, decision-making for children and relocation with children are undeniably more prone to conflict in any divorce. The financial issues are far from immune. Divorcing spouses can be provoked by financial claims or positions that can arouse equally strong emotional reactions of …
Narcissist Personality Disorder is a mental condition where people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships and a lack of empathy. Characteristics of narcissists and symptoms can vary drastically. While most people are not formally diagnosed with Narcissist Personality …
Adultery and unfaithfulness continue to seem to be one of the leading causes for separations in Alberta. While it is often the cause for a separation or divorce, and emotions will often be very high, many are surprised to learn it typically will not have a significant impact on the …
December is typically the busiest (and most stressful) time at the Court. Even if you do not celebrate Christmas, children still have time off from school and it is common for families to depart from their regular parenting schedule. If you do not have a formal parenting plan in place …
Separating from a spouse or partner is no doubt one of the most difficult events someone will experience in their lives. The worries are endless and often include the well-being of children, how time with children will be structured, debt management, protection of assets, and what support will be paid …
Our office frequently meets with clients to review their estate planning strategies, only to find that they have already taken significant “DIY” steps based on a magazine article or an online blog – often from another jurisdiction – or even the advice of a well-meaning but mis-informed friend. Not all …
There is a common misconception that Alberta estates, and estates in Canada generally, are subject to an “estate tax” based on the total value of the estate, as in the United States. This is not correct; however, Alberta estates are often face a significant tax liability depending on the nature …
The journey toward finalizing a divorce can be a treacherous one. The smart move is to have a qualified lawyer at your side as you work your way through all of the issues that can come with the end of your marriage. Either way, it won’t be easy. But here …
Naming an Executor (also known as ‘Personal Representative’ or ‘Trustee’) of your Will would seem to be a fairly non-controversial issue and in most cases it is. Typically, a testator will name their spouse in the first instance, with one or more of their children as alternates. Problems can arise …
