People experiencing domestic abuse must often deal with several legal matters while addressing that violence. Some matters will need urgent attention. But which ones? When the neighbours called 911 on Saturday night, Maria’s life went into a tailspin. As the police were arresting Paul, they told … [Read more...]
The Divorce Act and Invisible Abuse: Coercive control in family law
Coercive control, regularly at the heart of family violence, is now listed in the Divorce Act as a factor in the best interest determinations for children. The Divorce Act, as amended in March 2021, lists coercive controlling behaviours as a factor in best interest determinations for children. This … [Read more...]
(More) Myths About Child Support
Debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law, including those about waiving obligations and business income. Most times when you ask a lawyer a question, the first words out of their mouth are “that depends …” Family law is no different! However, Canada’s child support legislation is … [Read more...]
Family Violence and Family Law in Alberta: The need for legislative reform and expansive statutory interpretation
Alberta has made some progress in its response to family violence, but there are areas where we are falling behind, including family law. November is Family Violence Prevention Month in Alberta, providing a good opportunity to reflect on the laws that address family violence in this … [Read more...]
Myths about Child Support
Debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law, including those about getting out of your obligation to pay any or more support. This article continues our series on debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law. Today’s topic: myths on ways to avoid paying child support. A note … [Read more...]
I’m Turning 18, Now What: Family matters
Wondering about family issues, like searching for biological parents, living with someone, getting married and more? In Alberta, turning 18 means you are now an adult. You can make decisions for yourself. But you might also still feel like a kid. Chances are you are trying to figure out what your … [Read more...]
Myths about Filing Claims
Debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law. This article continues our series on debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law. In our last issue, Erika covered myths about lawyers. Today’s topic: the family law process, particularly, filing claims. Myth: If I file first, I have … [Read more...]
HAVE YOU HEARD? | Sexual Violence Awareness Month
Did you know May is Sexual Violence Awareness Month? WEBINAR | Sexual Violence and the Law Does your work include helping people who have experienced sexual violence? This panel discussion will showcase the incredible work organizations across the province are doing to support these … [Read more...]
Lawyer: Friend or foe?
Debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law. This article is the first in a series dedicated to debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law. Today’s topic? Lawyers. Many people experiencing a family breakdown have pre-conceived notions about the role of lawyers. These ideas … [Read more...]
Changes to Jurisdictional Provisions under the Divorce Act
Changes to Canada's Divorce Act that came into effect on March 1, 2021 include major changes to jurisdictional rules. There are several notable changes to Canada’s Divorce Act that came into effect on March 1, 2021. These changes are made through Bill C-78 which received Royal Assent on June 21, … [Read more...]