The Family Property Act says how adult interdependent partners (AIPs) divide their property on separation. But it seems to prohibit unmarried couples from signing a cohabitation agreement about property before they become AIPs. There is a gap in Alberta’s Family Property Act (the Act) that has … [Read more...]
What happens when farmers divorce?
The inter-generational nature of farms, and the need to keep enough farmland to make the farm viable, pose several unique challenges when families decide to separate. Farm families often experience the law in unique ways, and divorce is no exception. The inter-generational nature of farms, and the … [Read more...]
What happens when a business owner divorces? Part 2
In this second part, let's look at protecting a business, and calculating child and spousal support. Part 1 of this article explained the various ways a divorcing spouse can be compensated for their family property claim to a business. Part 2 now looks at how to insulate a business from the … [Read more...]
What happens when a business owner divorces? Part 1
In this part, let's look at buying spouses out and corporate assets. Whether you are a business owner, the spouse of a business owner, or in business with another family, you may be curious about what impact a divorce can have on the business. If your business partner is divorcing or you are … [Read more...]
Self-Employment and Family Law: Calculating Income for Support
In most cases, the amount of child support a parent has to pay is determined by their income. For an employee, this is generally simple to calculate and is usually set out at line 150 of the employee’s tax return. However, many Albertans earn income from self-employment. It can be complicated to … [Read more...]
Financial Disclosure in Family Law Cases, Don’t Hide; It’s Best to Provide!
Navigating the family law system without a lawyer can feel overwhelming, but many successfully find their way. One of the biggest stumbling blocks for self-represented individuals is a resistance to provide sufficient financial information. In order to properly negotiate or litigate child … [Read more...]
How is property divided at the end of a relationship?
The property rights that you have at the end of a relationship depend on what kind of relationship you had in the first place. Are you married? Living together? If you are married, then the property rights that you have come from Alberta’s Matrimonial Property Act. If you are living together but are … [Read more...]