Arbitration in Family Law
In basic terms, arbitration in family law is a process where the parties select a “private Judge”. They have to pay the arbitrator to make decisions for them. Here is why arbitration makes sense in many family law matters.
Cohabitation and Prenuptial Agreements: Can it include pets? What else?
Pets: Yes! A Cohabitation or Prenuptial Agreement is a legal contract between you and your spouse, typically about property. Pets are usually still treated as “owned” or property under Alberta Law. So, yes, an Agreement can cover where the beloved pet will live if the couple separates.
When Love is in the Air, Keep Your Finances Grounded
Cohabitation and Prenuptial Agreements Basics with Ceri Chwieros A Cohabitation Agreement or Prenuptial Agreement is a legal contract between a couple about their finances. It allows the couple to decide for themselves what will happen to their assets and debts (and sometimes spousal support) if they separate, or as part of estate planning. It can…
Financial information: Why? Isn’t that private?
In most family law matters, each person is expected to provide his/her financial information to the other person at the start, and then with updates all the way through, until the financial issues are resolved. The financial information goes to your lawyer, the other person, and often to the court or arbitrator. Being organized and…
New Changes to the Divorce Act (Part Two)
In part one of this series, we discussed the new changes to the Divorce Act which came into force on March 1, 2021. Specifically, we looked at the new language to changes in custody and access (parenting) and family violence. In part two, we will examine how the new Act deals with situations where a…
New Changes to the Divorce Act (Part One)
The Divorce Act governs how two legally married spouses can divorce. It also deals with custody, access, child support and spousal support. The Divorce Act has not been significantly amended since 1985. Starting March 1, 2021, the Divorce Act will significantly change the law in many areas. There are language changes related to parenting (custody…
S 7? IDK! – Family law jargon explained
Trying to keep up with teenage slang reminded me how confusing family law jargon can be. In family law, the terms usually are an abbreviation, a case name, a true technical word, or a legal term. Words are crucial in legal interpretation, but “legalese” can create confusion. So, here are a few commonly used Alberta…
Navigating extracurricular activities after separation during COVID-19
After navigating back to school this fall, many parents are now also having to make decisions about whether their children should return to extracurricular activities. Many activities are resuming with an adapted “in person” attendance option.
The Unique Needs of Business Owners Going Through Divorce
Business owners often have additional considerations, needs, and properties on separation. The business structure and nature of each spouse’s involvement will inform the interim and final issues that need to be solved. Common concerns of business owners include maintaining operations during separation, minimizing the effects of their separation on the business, keeping their personal dispute…