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...]
(Even More) Myths About Child Support
Debunking the myths and legends that haunt family law, including those about supporting adult children and the obligations of stepparents. We have already debunked some myths about the law of child support, but there are so many out there! Let’s address a few more … Myth: My child is now 18 so I … [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...]
Domestic Violence Resources from CPLEA
Family Violence Prevention Month has come to an end but sadly information on this topic is needed year round. Here's a summary of information available from CPLEA. INFO SHEETS | Domestic Violence and the Law We have updated our Domestic Violence and the Law series of info sheets. Topics include: … [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...]
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...]
