Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Canada

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Founded in 1980
English
Clarke Smith Estabrooks & Miller Law Office, located in Regina, Saskatchewan, offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. The firm's areas of practice include real estate law, wills and estates, family law, civil litigation, blockchain and...

Founded in 2012
English
Duensing Law, located in Toronto, Ontario, offers comprehensive legal services in wills and succession planning, probate and estate administration, estate litigation, and real estate law. The firm is led by Matthias Duensing, a versatile lawyer with a focus on wills, trusts, estates, and real...
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...
Specht & Pryer Law Corp
Vancouver, Canada

Founded in 2002
50 people in their team
French
English
Based in Downtown Vancouver, Specht and Pryer has been offering legal services in Mandarin, Cantonese, Japanese, Korean and English for over 20 years. We have varied experience in Family Law, Criminal Law, Corporate, Immigration, Will and Estate and more. While primarily practicing in Vancouver,...
Donald & Kehler Law Office
Brandon, Canada

Founded in 1994
English
Established in 1994, Donald & Kehler Law Office, formerly known as Donald Legal Services, has been serving the legal needs of individuals and businesses in Southwestern Manitoba for over three decades. The firm offers a comprehensive range of services, including real estate transactions, corporate...
Weng Law Firm
Toronto, Canada

English
Weng Law Firm, located in Toronto, Ontario, offers a comprehensive range of legal services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clients. The firm's practice areas include real estate transactions, business law, wills, estates and trusts, personal injury cases, family and divorce matters, and...

English
A.S. Law OFFICE in Winnipeg stands as a beacon of legal expertise, specializing in both real estate and family law. Serving as champions for their clients, the firm boasts a team of experienced attorneys who are well-versed in navigating the complexities of property transactions and family legal...
Innes Law
Grande Prairie, Canada

Founded in 1980
English
Innes Law, located in Grande Prairie, Alberta, is a boutique law firm dedicated to providing expert legal advice with integrity and honesty. Specializing exclusively in family and real estate law, the firm assists clients through significant life transitions with a focus on personalized service. By...
Alberta Law Office
Edmonton, Canada

Founded in 2021
English
Alberta Law Office, based in Edmonton, Alberta, specializes in family law, offering comprehensive legal services in areas such as divorce, child custody, spousal support, and property division. The firm's experienced attorneys are dedicated to guiding clients through complex legal processes with...
Fonkalsrud Law Firm
Moose Jaw, Canada

English
Fonkalsrud Law Firm, also known as Advocate Law, is a distinguished legal practice based in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan. Led by founder Estes Fonkalsrud, the firm offers comprehensive legal services across various domains, including criminal defense, real estate transactions, family law, employment...
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About Divorce & Separation Law in Canada:

Divorce and separation in Canada are governed by federal and provincial laws. In Canada, divorce is regulated under the Divorce Act, which sets out the grounds for divorce, as well as issues related to child custody, support, and division of property. Separation, on the other hand, does not require any legal proceedings but may involve agreements on issues such as child custody, support, and division of assets.

Why You May Need a Lawyer:

There are several situations where you may need a lawyer for divorce and separation, such as complex financial matters, disputed child custody arrangements, or if your spouse is uncooperative. A lawyer can help protect your legal rights, negotiate favorable settlements, and ensure that all legal requirements are met.

Local Laws Overview:

In Canada, each province has its own family law legislation that governs divorce and separation. Some key aspects that are typically addressed in local laws include child custody, child support, spousal support, and division of property. It's important to be aware of the specific laws in your province when going through a divorce or separation.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What are the grounds for divorce in Canada?

In Canada, the only ground for divorce is the breakdown of the marriage. This can be demonstrated by living separate and apart for at least one year, adultery, or mental or physical cruelty.

2. How is child custody determined?

Child custody is determined based on the best interests of the child. Factors considered include the child's relationship with each parent, the ability of each parent to provide for the child's needs, and the child's wishes (if they are old enough to express them).

3. How is child support calculated?

Child support in Canada is typically calculated based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines, which take into account the paying parent's income, the number of children, and the province of residence. Special or extraordinary expenses may also be factored in.

4. What is spousal support?

Spousal support, also known as alimony or maintenance, is financial support paid by one spouse to the other following a separation or divorce. The amount and duration of spousal support can vary depending on factors such as the length of the marriage and each spouse's financial situation.

5. How is property divided in a divorce?

In Canada, property division is based on the concept of equalization of net family property. This means that each spouse is entitled to one-half of the value of the assets acquired during the marriage, subject to certain exceptions.

6. Can I change a custody or support order?

Yes, custody and support orders can be changed if there has been a significant change in circumstances since the original order was made. A lawyer can help you navigate the process of seeking a variation of an existing order.

7. Do I need a separation agreement?

While not required by law, a separation agreement can help clarify issues such as child custody, support, and division of property, and can provide a legally binding document outlining the terms of the separation. It is recommended to consult a lawyer when drafting a separation agreement.

8. How long does the divorce process take?

The length of the divorce process can vary depending on factors such as the complexity of the issues involved, whether the divorce is contested or uncontested, and the backlog of the family court in your jurisdiction. On average, a divorce in Canada can take anywhere from a few months to a year or more.

9. Can I represent myself in a divorce case?

While it is possible to represent yourself in a divorce case, it is recommended to seek legal advice to ensure that your rights are protected and that all legal requirements are met. A lawyer can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the divorce process.

10. How much does it cost to hire a divorce lawyer?

The cost of hiring a divorce lawyer can vary depending on factors such as the lawyer's experience, the complexity of the case, and the specific services required. It is important to discuss fees and payment options with your lawyer upfront to avoid any surprises later on.

Additional Resources:

If you are in need of legal advice for divorce and separation in Canada, you may consider reaching out to local legal aid clinics, family law associations, or government resources such as the Department of Justice or the Provincial Court Family Division. These organizations can provide valuable information and support for individuals going through a divorce or separation.

Next Steps:

If you are considering divorce or separation in Canada and are in need of legal assistance, it is recommended to schedule a consultation with a qualified family law lawyer. A lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and advocate on your behalf to achieve a fair resolution. Take the time to research and find a lawyer who specializes in family law and has experience handling divorce and separation cases in your province.

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. 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.