Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Canada

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Emma & Co. Law Firm
Lacombe, Canada

Founded in 2020
English
Emma & Co. Law Firm, established in 2020, is a distinguished legal practice located in Lacombe, Alberta, dedicated to providing comprehensive legal services in family law, real estate transactions, mediation, and general legal counsel. The firm is committed to adapting to clients' evolving needs by...
Surrey, Canada

English
Cote & Evans Trial Lawyers, located in Surrey, British Columbia, is a distinguished litigation firm offering comprehensive legal services across multiple practice areas. Their team of seasoned lawyers specializes in civil litigation, family law, motor vehicle law, criminal defense, personal injury,...
Craig Law
Calgary, Canada

English
Craig Law is a boutique law firm with offices in Calgary and Lethbridge, Alberta, offering a comprehensive range of legal services. Their practice areas include commercial and residential real estate, corporate law for start-ups, wills and estates, as well as family, labour, and employment law. The...
Okola Law
Toronto, Canada

English
Okola Law, located in Toronto, Ontario, is a client-focused legal practice dedicated to delivering high-quality services at affordable rates. The firm emphasizes a modern approach to traditional legal challenges, leveraging specialized legal knowledge to craft solutions that align with the law and...
Schwalb Legal
Montreal, Canada

Founded in 2014
50 people in their team
French
English
ExperienceWhether you are a foreign national making an application for a temporary employment, student visa, a permanent resident visa, a business or individual who wishes to purchase a commercial or residential property, a person going through a divorce, we will always apply the best possible...
MacLean Keith LLP
Regina, Canada

Founded in 1919
English
MacLean Keith LLP, a distinguished law firm in Canada, excels in delivering exceptional legal services across various practice areas including attorney services, divorce law, employment law, family law, and personal injury law. With an unwavering commitment to excellence, the firm has built a...
MM Law
Calgary, Canada

Founded in 2000
10 people in their team
French
English
MM Family & Divorce Lawyers practice exclusively in the areas of Family and Divorce law.Based in Calgary, AB, MM Family & Divorce Lawyers strives to provide all of its clients with professional, friendly, efficient legal advice and services, tailored to each individual’s needs.We...
First Women Law Firm

First Women Law Firm

15 minutes Free Consultation
Toronto, Canada

Founded in 2014
6 people in their team
English
We are a Tightly-woven network of active, assertive, experienced, sensible, rational, & impartial women advocates at your disposal in Lahore - Consistent, self-reliant, and independent lawyers in Pakistan. Building the foundation of the women-law firm on vision and values.Our Core-Focus is...
Stenbeck Law Office
Medicine Hat, Canada

English
Stenbeck Law Office, located in Medicine Hat, Alberta, offers comprehensive legal services in civil law, family law, divorce, and employment law. With over 25 years of experience, the firm is dedicated to providing tailored solutions that address the unique financial, emotional, and legal needs of...
Lynn Valley Law
North Vancouver, Canada

English
Lynn Valley Law stands as a beacon of trusted legal expertise in Canada, with decades of dedication across diverse practice areas. Specializing in family law, they offer compassionate and adept navigation through the complexities of divorce and family-related legal matters. Their seasoned divorce...
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About Divorce & Separation Law in Canada

Divorce and separation in Canada are governed by both federal and provincial laws. The Divorce Act is the federal law that deals with divorce, child support, and spousal support in Canada. It applies to all provinces and territories. Issues like property division and child custody fall under provincial jurisdiction. The process involves legal and emotional considerations, making it important for those involved to understand their rights and obligations. Canada follows a "no-fault" divorce system, meaning you do not have to prove any wrongdoing by your spouse to obtain a divorce.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance is highly recommended in situations involving divorce and separation due to their complexity and significant life impact. You may need a lawyer to:

  • Navigate the legal paperwork and ensure compliance with legal procedures.
  • Provide guidance on child custody and support arrangements.
  • Advocate for fair division of property and assets.
  • Address any spousal support concerns.
  • Help you understand your rights and develop a strategic approach to your case.
  • Offer mediation or negotiation support to reach amicable agreements.

Local Laws Overview

Key aspects of divorce and separation laws in Canada include:

  • Residency Requirements: One spouse must have lived in the province for at least one year before applying for a divorce there.
  • Grounds for Divorce: The most common ground is living apart for one year. Adultery and cruelty are also grounds, though they require evidence.
  • Child Custody and Support: Decisions are made in the child's best interest, considering factors such as stability and caregiving ability.
  • Spousal Support: Determined based on need, ability to pay, and other factors like the length of the marriage.
  • Property Division: Generally, marital property is divided equally unless otherwise agreed upon or determined by the court.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between separation and divorce?

Separation means living apart from your spouse with the intent to end the relationship, while divorce is the legal dissolution of the marriage.

How long do I need to be separated before I can file for divorce?

Under Canadian law, couples need to be separated for a minimum of one year before finalizing a divorce, although you can start the process sooner.

Do we have to go to court to get divorced in Canada?

If both parties agree on all terms, you might not have to appear in court. Uncontested divorces can often be processed through filing paperwork.

How is child custody determined?

The best interests of the child are the primary consideration. Factors include the child's emotional and educational needs, stability, and the ability of each parent to care for the child.

Will spousal support be required after a divorce?

Spousal support depends on several factors, including the payer's ability to provide support, the recipient's need, and the length of the marriage.

What happens to our property after divorce?

Marital property is typically divided equally. However, certain assets might be exempt, and agreements can be reached through negotiation or mediation.

Can I move to a different province with my child after separation?

Relocation that might affect the child's relationship with the other parent usually requires consent from the other parent or the court.

What is mediation, and is it mandatory?

Mediation is a process to help clarify issues and reach mutual agreements with a neutral third party. It is not mandatory but can be helpful and cost-effective.

Can I receive child support if I am not divorced?

Yes, child support arrangements can be made irrespective of the marital status, based on custodial arrangements and provincial guidelines.

How can I change a maintenance order?

You can apply to the court to vary a support order if there is a significant change in circumstances, like income change or custody arrangements.

Additional Resources

For further assistance, consider reaching out to:

  • Family Law Information Centres: Located in most courthouses, offering information and support.
  • Legal Aid Services: Provide assistance to those who qualify financially.
  • Provincial Law Societies: Can refer you to family lawyers in your region.
  • Public Legal Education and Information Centres: Offer resources and publications about family law.

Next Steps

If you need legal assistance in divorce or separation, consider the following steps:

  1. Consult with a family lawyer to understand your options and legal rights.
  2. Gather all necessary documents related to finances, property, and child arrangements.
  3. Consider seeking mediation services to resolve disputes amicably.
  4. Reach out to local support groups or counselors for emotional support during this transition.
  5. File the necessary paperwork for separation or divorce with the court, if you're proceeding legally.

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 Divorce & Separation, 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.

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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.

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