divorce

Roses are Red, Violets are Blue, I don’t want a nasty Divorce, what do I do?

The Divorce process doesn’t have to be nasty. There are many amicable options to deal with your Divorce and separation – the Collaborative Process is one of the options. The Collaborative Process is based on a shared commitment and agreement to seek a better way to resolve differences justly and equitably. It is based on […]

Read More...

I am going through a separation, why do I need to take the Parenting After Separation Course?

There are many good reasons to attend this course. First, it is free and a great opportunity to obtain some helpful legal and practical advice early in the separation process. Second, it helps parents to develop a parenting plan or arrangement and gives parents information and tools they need to work together as parents for […]

Read More...

I’m getting divorced. How can I prepare to move forward more positively?

Research shows there are three preconditions for positive change. First, something must motivate an individual to want to change. Second, a different relationship that creates psychological safety and empathy must exist (like with a divorce coach). Third, there must be optimal anxiety – the right amount of discomfort in the current situation to want to […]

Read More...

Who Keeps the Dog?

Are you going through a divorce or separation? Have you heard of the Collaborative Process? The Collaborative Process is a revolutionary way of dealing with separation and divorce and offers couples an effective and dignified alternative to the traditional court process for navigating through one of life’s most challenging and emotionally charged times. If you […]

Read More...

Our incomes have changed, but Child Support payments have not!

The Albert Recalculation Program can help! Since 2015, all Child Support Orders granted in Alberta must state whether or not the Child Support Recalculation Program applies to that Order. The goal of the Recalculation Program is to help parents keep child support levels in line with their incomes, so that families can avoid the time […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...

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 […]

Read More...