WINning is the story of people – mostly women – whose courage, vision, and commitment provoked societal recognition of women’s realities and needs. In 1968, a small group of women put a plan in motion that would change the lives of countless women facing desperate choices. In WINning: The Trials, … [Read more...]
Toward a holistic approach to reform of the Canadian legal system
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. 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 legislators’ best possible attempt to create black and white laws – … [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...]
So You Want to Make a Will in Alberta?
The Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA) receives many questions on making a Will. Let's answer a few of them! At the Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA), we receive many questions on making a Will: Where do I start? Can I do it myself? Where can I find the forms? How … [Read more...]
Bad Behaviour 7.0: Sexual Harassment & Wrongful Dismissal
Usually, the person claiming to have been harassed sues the employer. In a 2004 B.C. case, the harasser sued the employer for wrongful dismissal. This is the bad behaviour story of a spurned co-worker in a union office. His romantic desires were unreciprocated. He was then accused of revenge. … [Read more...]
Alberta Court Adds New Tort about Protecting Private Information
The tort of Public Disclosure of Private Information protects someone from having private information disclosed about them publicly. In September 2021, the Alberta Court of Queen’s Bench released its decision in ES v Shillington. Noteworthy about this case is that the Court recognized a … [Read more...]
Absolute and Conditional Discharges in Canada
Absolute and conditional discharges are types of sentences in Canada's criminal justice system. Want to learn more? What is a discharge? A discharge is a legal sentence in Canada set out in section 730(1) of Canada’s Criminal Code. Both absolute and conditional discharges are a finding of guilt … [Read more...]
Wills, Personal Directives and Powers of Attorney: What’s the difference?
A complete estate plan includes three documents: a Will, Enduring Power of Attorney, and Personal Directive. Are you prepared? A complete estate plan includes three documents: a Will, Enduring Power of Attorney, and Personal Directive. Each province and territory has its own laws about these … [Read more...]
