Similar to the collaborative process which I introduced last month, mediation is a process which can also have tremendous positive effects on families going through separation and divorce. Family Mediation is a safe and neutral environment in which families can resolve their disputes. A neutral mediator facilitates the parties’ discussions, encouraging them to identify and explore their core … [Read more...] about I have heard about “mediation” for resolving family disputes – can you explain it?
Family Law and Divorce
January is “International Child-Centred Divorce Month”
There is lots of media attention on January being “International Divorce Month” and January 8th being “International Divorce Day”, but I prefer to bring to light a different term if we are to say that January is a popular month for initiating divorce proceedings – it’s called “International Child-Centred Divorce Month” and it focuses on the importance of focusing on what every parent feels is the … [Read more...] about January is “International Child-Centred Divorce Month”
How do I improve transitions for kids between two homes?
We know that toxic stress and chronic conflict negatively impacts kids’ development. When you are separated and need to deal with facilitating a parenting schedule and exchanging kids, stress and conflict can occur especially at the point of the exchange. Here are some tips to reduce conflict during exchanges and improve kids’ experiences of transition times: Reduce the number of … [Read more...] about How do I improve transitions for kids between two homes?
Changes are Coming for Unmarried Separating Couples in Alberta – Jan 1, 2020
There’s a new Act coming into force on January 1, 2020 – the Family Property Act – replacing the current Matrimonial Property Act. The biggest change is that this legislation now gives unmarried separating couples in Alberta the right to automatically divide their assets and debts. This is huge – until now, these separated couples had to prove that there should be a division of assets … [Read more...] about Changes are Coming for Unmarried Separating Couples in Alberta – Jan 1, 2020
How do I know if I’m entitled to spousal support?
Each time I write about spousal support, I always repeat the same statement of principle – the determination of spousal support is more of an art than a science. This remains true. In order to determine whether you’re entitled to spousal support, you should begin by considering the factors set out in the various legislation – Divorce Act (Canada) if you’re married, or if you’re unmarried … [Read more...] about How do I know if I’m entitled to spousal support?
Give Your Children The Gift of A Conflict-Free Christmas
What do children in the midst of their parents’ high conflict divorce want for Christmas? Ask them… they’ll tell you they want freedom from conflict – a gift that will last a lifetime. Wouldn’t that be a special gift for your children? When parents talk about how they will share holidays and special occasions, many parents express that they simply want to “share holidays by mutual … [Read more...] about Give Your Children The Gift of A Conflict-Free Christmas
As a step-parent, do I have a right to spend time with my step-kids after divorce?
By agreement between you and your former spouse, you have a right to enter into a parenting arrangement with biological kids and/or step-kids. If you and your former spouse cannot agree, you may make an application to Court to ask for time with your step-kids. If you are unmarried and the kids reside in Alberta, you may apply to Court under the provisions of the Family Law Act called … [Read more...] about As a step-parent, do I have a right to spend time with my step-kids after divorce?
If I’m divorced, who will look after my kids in the event of my death?
The laws in Alberta vs. Saskatchewan regarding guardianship of children after the passing of one parent are quite different. Some parents think that it’s automatically the other parent that will get the kids. On the other hand, some parents try to put it in their Will as to who will get their kids, and it’s not the other parent. In Alberta, you yourself in a Will can only give to … [Read more...] about If I’m divorced, who will look after my kids in the event of my death?