Accepting New Clients
If you are marrying, separating, divorcing, or need help with issues related to parenting time, child support, or spousal support please reach out to book a consultation. One of our family law practitioners will review your situation and help you understand your options, rights, and responsibilities under the law.
How can we help you?
Separation and Divorce
Separation and Divorce
Separation and Divorce
The process of transitioning your family structure can be difficult, and it is important to make good decisions even when the situation is frustrating and emotionally draining.
Our family law associates are committed to supporting you through the process with empathetic legal advice and services. We will inform you of your situation and options so that you can make the right moves to further your long-term goals. With patience and flexibility, it is often possible to navigate a separation without going to a trial.
If you are separating or divorcing, contact us to book a consultation with a family law associate where you can learn about your next steps and options.
Separation Agreements
Separation and Divorce
Separation and Divorce
A separation agreement is a written contract between you and your ex-partner that spells out the terms of your separation. Separation occurs when the relationship has broken down and each person is living in their own residence or both parties are living in a shared residence with separate rooms, meals, and finances. A separation agreement must be fair, understood by both parties, and the result of the honest disclosure of financial information. We can help you create a strong separation agreement that deals with all the important issues.
If you are separating or divorcing, contact us to book a consultation with a family law associate to begin the process of drafting your separation agreement.
How can we help you?
Mediation
Cohabitation Agreements
Cohabitation Agreements
If you are involved in a family related dispute, you might have heard of mediation as an avenue to resolve the dispute outside of court. Mediation is when two disputing parties engage the assistance of a neutral third party to help them resolve their disputes. Mediation can often be an effective tool in family-related matters such as separation, division of property, spousal support, and parenting time and decision-making issues (i.e. child custody disputes). Mediation can allow parties to come to a mutually agreeable settlement on their own terms. We are able to advise you on the appropriateness of mediation for your situation, assist you in preparing for mediation and advising you of your rights, and attend mediation with you to advocate on your behalf.
Cohabitation Agreements
Cohabitation Agreements
Cohabitation Agreements
Are you considering moving in with your partner? A cohabitation agreement can serve to protect both parties in the event of a relationship breakdown. A cohabitation agreement (sometimes referred to as a prenup) allows you and your partner to agree on financial and property matters at any time in your relationship. In the event of a separation, having an in-place agreement regarding shared issues such as
separation of finances and property can greatly ease the burden of potential legal costs and stress and prevent future legal action.
How can we help you?
Wills and Powers of Attorney
Wills and Powers of Attorney
Wills and Powers of Attorney
Have you gone through a recent separation? If so, now is the time to update your will. As of January 1, 2022, the Succession Law Reform Act was amended so that separated spouses cannot benefit from the estate of a deceased. Separated spouses who have been appointed as executors under a will and/or are named beneficiary are now treated as if they had predeceased the testator. If you and your partner were married and have listed each other in your respective wills as executors or beneficiaries, you will need to redo your wills. No matter your personal situation or what assets you may or may not have, we recommend you do a will. Having a will saves your family from uncertainty and significant legal costs if you were to pass away. Estate matters often overlap with family law matters and our lawyers are committed to assisting you in estate planning to give you and your loved ones peace of mind.
Negotiation
Wills and Powers of Attorney
Wills and Powers of Attorney
Negotiation is solving issues by talking and finding agreement. You don't need to have a lawyer to negotiate, and you and your partner can discuss things by yourselves or with the help of someone you both trust.
However, it can be helpful to consult with a lawyer to receive independent legal advice to learn what law applies to your situation. A lawyer can also act for you where you are having difficulty negotiating safely or fairly with your partner. Our family law associates are ready to assist you in understanding your position in your negotiations, and offer unbundled limited retainer services to help you further your negotiations and reach an agreement.
Services Offered
Consultation
$300 + HST
Contact us to book a 1-hour consultation with a family law practitioner. You will complete a confidential questionnaire prior to your visit where you can outline your situation and define your questions and priorities. At your consultation you will have the opportunity to learn about your options and next steps in the context of the law and your goals.
Cohabitation/ Marriage Agreements
$1,000 + HST
If you and your partner agree on the substance of your agreement and agree to provide financial disclosure, we can prepare and execute your cohabitation (pre-nup) agreement or marriage contract at an all-inclusive flat rate.
Separation Agreements
variable
Negotiated Separation Agreements are subject to our family lawyers' hourly rates of $225/hr + HST with a minimum $2,000 retainer.
Simple (uncontested) Divorce
$1,600 + HST
We can assist you in filing for divorce at a low rate where you and your spouse have a valid separation agreement and are prepared to submit a joint application.
If you are making an application or claim to the court or are responding to an application or claim served on you, contact us to learn more about our limited scope services or general retainer options.
Our Family Law Team
Samantha Savage
Consultation Rate: $300
Independent Legal Advice: $225/hr
Lisa Coutu
Consultation Rate: $300
Independent Legal Advice: $225/hr