Best Child Custody Lawyers in Canada

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Dreyer and Associates
Langley, Canada

10 people in their team
English
Dreyer and Associates is a Langley based family law firm serving the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland. The firm focuses on family law, wills and estate planning, and residential conveyancing, offering services that range from divorce and separation to estate planning and property closings. Dreyer...
Oliver & Co
Williams Lake, Canada

Founded in 1975
English
Oliver & Co is a distinguished law firm in Canada, renowned for its expertise across multiple legal domains, including estate planning, family law, personal injury, and real estate. With a meticulous approach to legal services, the firm provides tailored solutions that address the unique needs of...
Nychuk & Company
Regina, Canada

Founded in 1993
English
Nychuk & Company, a distinguished law firm in Canada, is renowned for its comprehensive range of legal services, notably including criminal justice, family law, labor relations, and personal injury. With a track record of successful cases, the firmโ€™s attorneys combine deep legal insight with...
Toronto, Canada

Founded in 2018
English
GC Boyle Law Firm, located in St. Marys, Ontario, offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. The firm's practice areas include contracts, municipal law, family law, traffic offenses, landlord and tenant disputes, re-finances, immigration, real...
LAW FIRM OF SUNNY CHHABRA
Whitby, Canada

English
The Law Firm of Sunny Chhabra, located in Whitby, Ontario, specializes in family law, offering comprehensive legal services in areas such as divorce and separation, child custody and access, child and spousal support, and property division. With over 21 years of experience practicing law in...
SV Law
Guelph, Canada

Founded in 1965
English
SV Law, established in 1960, is a full-service law firm with over 30 lawyers serving communities across Ontario, including Guelph, Fergus, Elora, Cambridge, Orangeville, Kitchener, and Waterloo. The firm offers comprehensive legal services in areas such as family law, employment law, estate...

English
Chinneck Law, now practicing law at McKenzie Lake LLP, brings a longstanding reputation for comprehensive legal solutions and professional integrity to clients throughout Canada. With a multifaceted practice, the firm offers expertise across key legal areas, including business law, estate planning,...
Kahane Law Office
Calgary, Canada

Founded in 2004
50 people in their team
French
English
How Kahane Law Office Is A Different FirmWe aim to exceed expectations! As a Calgary law firm, we also have signing agents in Calgary, Okotoks, Canmore, Edmonton, Red Deer and Fort McMurray, allowing us to conduct purchases and sales throughout Alberta.High levels of customer satisfaction. We...
Caledonia, Canada

English
Arrell Law LLP, established in 1898, is a distinguished law firm located in Caledonia, Ontario, serving the legal needs of Haldimand County, Norfolk County, and surrounding areas. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including real estate transactions, wills and estates,...
Diversitas Law Group
London, Canada

English
Diversitas Law Group, based in London, Ontario, offers comprehensive legal services in Immigration, Refugee, Citizenship, Family, and Real Estate Law. With a combined experience of 27 years, the firm's legal professionals have successfully assisted hundreds of clients in navigating complex legal...
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About Child Custody Law in Canada

Child custody in Canada refers to the legal rights and responsibilities that parents have in relation to their children following a separation or divorce. The goal of child custody laws in Canada is to prioritize the best interests of the child while ensuring that both parents have meaningful involvement in their upbringing.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

There are several situations in which you may need a lawyer to assist you with child custody matters. Some common scenarios include:

  • Disputes over custody arrangements
  • Concerns about the safety or well-being of the child
  • Parental relocation
  • Enforcement of custody orders

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of child custody laws in Canada include:

  • Legal custody: the right to make important decisions about the child's upbringing
  • Physical custody: where the child will live on a day-to-day basis
  • Joint custody: shared decision-making and parenting responsibilities
  • Best interests of the child: the primary consideration in custody decisions

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How is child custody determined in Canada?

In Canada, child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child. Factors such as the child's relationship with each parent, their emotional and physical well-being, and their own preferences are taken into account.

2. Can grandparents or other relatives seek custody of a child?

Under certain circumstances, grandparents or other relatives may seek custody of a child if it is in the child's best interests. However, the rights of parents are typically given priority in custody disputes.

3. What is the difference between legal custody and physical custody?

Legal custody refers to the right to make important decisions about the child's upbringing, such as education, healthcare, and religion. Physical custody, on the other hand, refers to where the child will live on a day-to-day basis.

4. Can parents have joint custody in Canada?

Yes, parents can have joint custody in Canada, which involves shared decision-making and parenting responsibilities. This arrangement is typically preferred when both parents are able to cooperate and communicate effectively.

5. How can a custody order be enforced in Canada?

If a parent is not complying with a custody order, the other parent can seek legal enforcement through the court system. This may involve filing a motion for contempt or requesting a modification of the custody order.

6. Can a parent relocate with a child without the other parent's consent?

In most cases, a parent cannot relocate with a child without the other parent's consent or a court order. If the move would significantly impact the child's relationship with the other parent, permission may be required.

7. How are custody arrangements modified in Canada?

If circumstances change and a modification of a custody arrangement is necessary, either parent can apply to the court for a variation of the existing order. The court will consider the best interests of the child when making a decision.

8. What rights do children have in custody proceedings?

In Canada, children have the right to be heard in custody proceedings, particularly if they are old enough to express their own preferences. Their views and wishes are taken into consideration by the court.

9. What role do child support payments play in custody arrangements?

Child support payments are separate from custody arrangements and are intended to ensure that both parents contribute financially to the child's upbringing. The amount of child support is determined based on federal guidelines.

10. How can I protect my rights in a child custody case?

To protect your rights in a child custody case, it is recommended to seek legal advice from a qualified family lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, advocate for your interests, and ensure that the best interests of your child are prioritized.

Additional Resources

For more information and resources related to child custody in Canada, you may consider reaching out to the following organizations:

  • Family Law Information Centres (FLIC)
  • Canadian Bar Association (CBA)
  • Legal Aid services in your province or territory

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance with child custody matters in Canada, it is important to consult with a family lawyer who specializes in this area of law. A lawyer can provide you with personalized advice and representation to help you navigate the complexities of child custody proceedings effectively.

Lawzana helps you find the best lawyers and law firms in Canada through a curated and pre-screened list of qualified legal professionals. Our platform offers rankings and detailed profiles of attorneys and law firms, allowing you to compare based on practice areas, including Child Custody, experience, and client feedback. Each profile includes a description of the firm's areas of practice, client reviews, team members and partners, year of establishment, spoken languages, office locations, contact information, social media presence, and any published articles or resources. Most firms on our platform speak English and are experienced in both local and international legal matters. Get a quote from top-rated law firms in Canada - quickly, securely, and without unnecessary hassle.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and relevance of the content, legal information may change over time, and interpretations of the law can vary. You should always consult with a qualified legal professional for advice specific to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken based on the content of this page. If you believe any information is incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will review and update it where appropriate.