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Family law
Move forward after separation with your children and finances protected
Clear, compassionate advice on divorce, separation, parenting and support, so you can make decisions with confidence and reduce conflict wherever possible.
At a glance
- Divorce and separation agreements
- Parenting time and decision-making
- Child and spousal support
- Prenups and cohabitation agreements
- Court representation when needed
How we help
A calm, steady guide through one of life's hardest moments
Separation affects everything at once: your children, your home, your finances and your future. We help you understand your rights under Ontario law, explain your options in plain language and work toward a fair agreement that lets everyone move forward.
Where possible, we resolve matters through negotiation rather than court, which usually saves time, money and stress. When court is necessary, we prepare you fully and stand firmly in your corner.
This page is for you if:
- You're separating or thinking about divorce
- You need a parenting plan that puts your children first
- You want support calculated fairly and correctly
- You're getting married or moving in together and want a domestic contract
- You've been asked to sign an agreement and need Independent Legal Advice
What we do
Family law services tailored to your situation
Every family is different. We’ll recommend only what you actually need.
Divorce
Guidance from the application to final orders. In Ontario you can usually apply after one year of separation.
Separation agreements
A written contract covering parenting, support and property, giving you certainty without going to court.
Parenting time and decision-making
Arrangements built around your children. These replace the older terms “custody” and “access”.
Child and spousal support
Fair support based on the federal guidelines, and changes to support orders when life changes.
Property division and equalization
Making sure the growth in value of what each spouse owned during the marriage is shared correctly.
Marriage and cohabitation contracts
Protect what you each bring into the relationship and agree in advance on how things would be handled.
Independent Legal Advice (ILA)
A private review of an agreement with your own lawyer before you sign, so you understand exactly what it means.
Second opinions
A fresh, honest look at advice you’ve already received or an agreement you’ve been offered.
Family court representation
Prepared, calm advocacy in the Ontario Court of Justice and Superior Court of Justice.
What to expect
How your family law matter works
We keep you informed at every stage, so you always know what happens next.
Initial consultation
We listen to your situation, explain your rights and outline your options and likely costs.
Gather the facts
We help you collect financial disclosure and the information needed for a fair outcome.
Negotiate an agreement
We work toward a fair separation agreement or settlement, keeping conflict as low as possible.
Finalize or go to court
We finalize your agreement or divorce, or represent you in court if an agreement isn’t possible.
Common questions
Family law questions, answered
Do we need to go to court to get divorced?
Not always. Many couples settle parenting, support and property through a separation agreement and then apply for an uncontested divorce. Court is needed when you can’t agree.
How long do I have to be separated before I can divorce?
In most cases you can apply for a divorce once you’ve been separated for one year. You can live separately under the same roof during that time in some circumstances.
How is child support calculated?
Basic child support is usually set using the Federal Child Support Guidelines, based on the paying parent’s income and the number of children. Some extra expenses are shared between parents.
Do common-law partners have the same property rights as married spouses?
No. In Ontario, common-law partners don’t have the same automatic property-sharing rights as married spouses. A cohabitation agreement can protect you both.
Related services
Other ways we can help you and your family
Ready to take the next step?
Talk to a family lawyer who will listen first and explain your options clearly.