Many people are aware of common divorce issues like child custody, spousal support and the fate of the family home. But, for the many married couples who own and operate a business together in Alberta, the fate of the family business can be one of the hardest things to tackle in divorce mediation. There …
Finding family law solutions when there are child abuse concerns
Child abuse is a very challenging issue to navigate. Finding family law solutions in a situation where a parent or someone in the household is suspected of abusive behaviour can be particularly unsettling and legally contentious for all involved. Those who are accused of abuse, or those who suspect abuse …
Navigating co-parenting and child custody during the holidays
Co-parenting comes with challenges any time of year, but the holidays can be a particular struggle.Divorced parents in Alberta often contend with issues like child custody schedules, differing traditions and how much to spend on presents. They may also argue over Christmas, New Year’s and other celebrations. While there are …
Important financial considerations in high asset divorce
Couples who have become acclimated to a certain lifestyle, or who hold a significant amount of wealth, have particular considerations when they choose to end a marriage. In Alberta, even high asset divorce can leave one or both parties with concerns about their financial well-being. What can be done to …
Three big challenges that may accompany a family law dispute
Conflict is never easy, and when a family issue enters the legal arena, it often becomes even more difficult to manage. A family law dispute, in particular divorce, can bring with it several stressors. It is a good idea for Alberta individuals to prepare for these challenges ahead of time …
Is a Grant of Probate Necessary?
In Alberta, a Grant of Probate is the Surrogate Court’s certification that the Will submitted by the Executor meets the formal requirements of a Will as set out in the Wills and Succession Act and is the last Will executed by the deceased. The Grant of Probate gives the Executor …
Divorce for business owners: Keeping emotions and money apart
When going through a divorce, small family businesses present a significant risk and challenge. Many married couples also happen to be joint-owners of small businesses. Running a business with a spouse can prove particularly beneficial since both owners tend to trust one another more than they would other business partners. …
Breaking Up – CBA Checklist
The Canadian Bar Association has published a helpful checklist of money-saving tips that assists in dealing with any potential financial consequences of relationship breakdown. Recognizing that break-ups can be a difficult and emotionally turbulent time, the checklist works as a preliminary tool that: Describes how to prepare for the first …
Tax Matters Toolkit: Separation & Divorce
The Canadian Bar Association has published the “Tax Matters Toolkit: Separation & Divorce” to assist separating parties understand potential tax consequences of relationship breakdown. The Toolkit notes that separation decisions, especially regarding children, property, or pensions, have tax implications and may affect parties’ future finances. To assist in becoming informed …
Imputing Income for the Purpose of Calculating Spousal or Child Support
If you are in a situation where you are separating from your spouse and they are not earning the income that you believe that they could be earning, you are not entitled to insist that they get a job or find alternative employment, but you may be able to impute …