Best Divorce & Separation Lawyers in Canada

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Belecky & Belecky
London, Canada

Founded in 1972
English
Belecky & Belecky is a London, Ontario law firm established in 1972, offering a full service practice in Real Estate, Corporate/Commercial, Family, and Wills & Estate Law. The firm serves individuals, families, and businesses across Southwestern Ontario with a focus on practical, results oriented...
Taylor McCaffrey LLP
Winnipeg, Canada

Founded in 1979
English
Taylor McCaffrey LLP, headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is a full-service law firm renowned for its comprehensive legal expertise across over 80 practice areas and 18 industries. The firm's team of more than 55 lawyers offers specialized services in areas such as Advocacy, Litigation & Dispute...
McLeod Law LLP
Calgary, Canada

Founded in 1980
200 people in their team
French
English
Progressive. Entrepreneurial. Practical.McLeod Law LLP opened its doors in 1980 as a two-person operation. We've grown to a team of more than 60 lawyers with legal services in over 40 different areas. We’re in the business of helping people, and that will never change. Our size and depth of...
FC&Z Family Lawyers Vancouver
Vancouver, Canada

Founded in 2014
English
FC&Z Family Lawyers Vancouver is a boutique family law practice specializing in complex divorce, asset division, parenting arrangements and related matters. The team serves clients across Western Canada from its Vancouver office and leverages years of focused experience to provide practical,...
Zacharias Vickers McCann LLP
Chilliwack, Canada

English
Zacharias Vickers McCann LLP is a distinguished full-service law firm serving clients across British Columbia, Alberta, and Yukon. The firm specializes in family law, estate litigation, estate planning, and personal injury cases. With a combined experience exceeding 55 years, the legal team is...
Kamloops, Canada

Founded in 1911
English
Morelli Chertkow LLP is a distinguished law firm based in British Columbia, Canada, with offices in Kamloops and Merritt. The firm offers a comprehensive range of legal services, including personal injury law, family law and divorce, wills and estate planning, business law, real estate law, estate...

Founded in 2015
10 people in their team
French
English
We are a team of dedicated Montreal lawyers and paralegals. From the first telephone call, one of our paralegals will gather the necessary information to evaluate your needs and our ability to help you. Without any obligation on your part or ours, she will obtain information to open your file, the...
Vernon, Canada

English
Davidson Lawyers LLP advises individuals, families, and companies on bankruptcy and debt matters, business transactions and disputes, employment issues, and family law. The team handles both advisory and contentious work, guiding clients through negotiations, mediations, and court processes when...
Gerrand Rath Johnson LLP
Regina, Canada

Founded in 1997
English
Gerrand Rath Johnson LLP, with origins dating back over a century, has established itself as a cornerstone of the Saskatchewan legal community. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of legal services, encompassing corporate and commercial law, labour law, insurance, criminal defense, and family...
Stabit Advocates
Vancouver, Canada

Founded in 2000
173 people in their team
French
English
Stabit Advocates LLP (https://www.stabitadvocates.com) is one of the top law firms in the world and stands as a beacon of legal excellence, recognized as one of the top law firms in East Africa, Africa and Globally with over 75 practice areas. Our firm is synonymous with top-tier legal expertise,...
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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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