The difference between separation and divorce is largely a legal one. Separation can apply to both married and common law couples while divorce can only apply to married couples. While you may hear phrases like “common law divorce,” there is no such thing as a common law divorce in Alberta. …
Immediately following a separation, it is normal to feel paralyzed as to what your next steps should be. As obvious as it may seem, the first step following a separation is determining that the relationship/marriage is actually done, and there is absolutely no chance of reconciliation. Once you and your …
When someone is considering divorce, it can be a stressful and scary time in their lives. Often, people do not know where to start and when to speak to a lawyer. Once you have decided that you are ready to proceed with seeking a divorce, it is best to gather …
The complexity of Divorce and Family Law matters can be an overwhelming challenge for any spouse. Although lawyers and judges have seen almost every version and variation of a divorce, spouses experiencing it for the first time encounter a steep learning curve. It would be oversimplified to distill such an …
Ending a relationship is an extraordinarily difficult emotional decision. Mental health experts say that the divorce or separation grieving process is similar to that arising from the loss of a loved one. Even the legal consequences of that decision are not only trying, but sometimes traumatic. Although there are ways …
Prenuptial agreements (often referred to as cohabitation agreements) are valid in Alberta and in many cases are a good idea to protect yourself in case of a future separation from your partner. Many Albertans are uncomfortable asking their partner to sign a prenuptial agreement as they are worried it will …
The end of most marriages will contemplate not just an emotional disentanglement, but a financial one as well. Most marriages coming to an end will involve corollary issues such as Property Division, Child Support and Spousal Support. Accordingly, separating couples will be expected to exchange financial information to ensure that …
ADR vs. Court The legal and judicial systems in Alberta have modernized in actively incentivizing parties to choose Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR). More broadly called “mediation”, these models of dispute resolution have evolved over time, all with the same goals of minimizing conflict, keeping costs down and expediting resolution. The …
Whether your separation is amicable or adversarial, you are well served to obtain advice from an experienced family law lawyer who can help to guide you through the process. Unfortunately, the legal fees that come with retaining a lawyer can often impede the progress of one’s case. While it is …
Children will sometimes want to choose which parent to live with or express a preference for residing with one parent over the other. For a variety of reasons, the children do not get to choose which parent they live with but their preferences may be considered. Ultimately, if the parents …
