How we can help
We are experienced in all areas of family law including separation and divorce, child and spousal support, cohabitation agreements, property division and more.
Our Services
Separation and Divorce
Whether you are married or living common-law, the end of a relationship can be complicated and draining. We represent clients in the negotiation of separation agreements, which typically addresses all outstanding issues between the parties. If the parties are married, we can finalize a Divorce on either a contested or uncontested basis, depending on the circumstances.
Child Support
When parents separate, most often monthly child support is owed to the primary care parent, as determined by Child Support Guidelines. If the parents are in a shared parenting arrangement, a more nuanced and case specific calculation of child support is done taking into account the incomes and expenses of the parties. Child support is an important way of ensuring that children are taken care of financially, in accordance with the incomes of the parents.
Custody and Parenting
Custody relates to how major decisions about the children will be made. In addition, parenting plans are created which outline when the children will be in the care of each respective parent. The most important consideration when negotiating and proceeding to Court on the issue of custody and parenting is the best interests of the children. Determining custody and parenting can be the most emotional aspect of a separation and it is important that a plan is created which meets the needs of the children and their parents.
Division of Property
Dividing your assets and debts at the end of a relationship can be challenging. When you are married, Nova Scotia has unique legislation surrounding how property may be divided. Nova Scotia does not have legislation to address property division for common law couples, so it can be more complicated. In any case, we are experienced in negotiating a settlement which is fair and reasonable considering the law and your specific circumstances.
Spousal Support
Spousal support, sometimes referred to a alimony, is sometimes owed when there is a disparity between the incomes of separating spouses. Spousal support may be owed when one spouse has become financially dependent on the other, or when one spouse made choices or took on roles during the marriage that impacted them financially.
Cohabitation Agreements
Cohabitation Agreements are agreements which outline each spouses expectations, rights and obligations related to asset division and sometimes, spousal support, in the event of a separation. While it can be uncomfortable to consider what would happen if your relationship were to end, for many it is liberating to know after you sign an agreement, that you and your partner are on the same page as to how things would be handled if it didn’t work out.
“Going through any court process is emotional and stressful. You put me at ease and I trusted you fully.”
— J., client