divorce

Are you separating or divorcing? Do you know your options?

Did you know that there are 6 Registered Collaborative Family Lawyers right here in St. Albert who are knowledgeable and specially trained to assist families moving through divorce? One of these lawyers’ superpowers is that they are skilled at working on settlement with clients and the other lawyer, rather than against them. Divorce is difficult […]

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I am recently separated. My spouse and I don’t want a nasty divorce. What can I do?

It’s important to think about the range of options available to you right off the bat. Most people are now aware that court does not have to be where to start. Mediation is an excellent option for those wanting facilitated communication while they negotiate. For those who want guidance around options for settlement and legal […]

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January is the start of divorce season – how can you help me get through my divorce?

Divorce is one of the most difficult transitions to make and it touches every aspect of your life. I have practiced family law since 2001 and became certified as a Registered Collaborative Family Lawyer in 2002 – and I have yet to see the same divorce twice. Each person’s journey is their own; my experience […]

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Should I do my own divorce?

The answer may well be why not? However, if you have young children, do not have clear or consistent annual incomes, need assistance to determine spousal support, or were married outside of Canada, consider consulting with a lawyer before beginning the process to find out the best way to proceed. If there is a chance […]

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I want to get divorced and I have 2 young children. My lawyer is asking me for my Tax Returns. Do I have to provide them?

If you have children entitled to support, both you and your spouse will have to disclose your incomes to determine the child support obligations. Your current income and your  sources of income must be supplied to the Court. This information will be held in the  confidence by your lawyer and your spouse’s lawyer. You cannot […]

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What really are the differences between choosing to resolve separation questions outside of the court system using the Collaborative Process?

There are a lot of reasons why so many people are choosing to resolve matters arising on separation outside of the court system. Some of the big ones include: a) privacy – many personal and financial details can otherwise become part of the filed documents; b) creativity – working together offers many more options regarding […]

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What can I expect at an initial consultation?

Consultations with a lawyer serve many purposes. It is an important way to learn more about the options for resolution available to you and lawyers have a statutory responsibility to advise you of those different process options. A consultation is also an opportunity to see if you will be a good fit to work together […]

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I have a Parenting Order and it says that my ex-spouse has parenting time this weekend. I don’t think COVID-19 mandatory public health measures are being followed. Do I have to send the kids to my ex-spouse’s home?

Yes. You must comply with the Parenting Order. You can apply to the Court to vary or change the Order, but the onus will be on you to show that the other parent has real plans or behaviors that are inconsistent with the current public health measures. Do not take advantage of the COVID-19 situation […]

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How is property divided in a divorce?

There is a presumption that all property accumulated during a marriage, whether in sole or joint names, is divisible on divorce.  However, as is so often the case, there are exceptions, including for property owned before marriage or received by gift or inheritance during the relationship. When property that is otherwise exempt from division is […]

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My divorce is simple. Can I do it by myself?

If you and your spouse have equal incomes, no children and no property to divide, with some time and patience you can do it yourself. If otherwise, there are most likely issues that are legally and financially complicated. There will be issues that you didn’t even know you have to resolve. As the saying goes […]

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