FINDING A TRUSTED DIVORCE LAWYER in Ottawa
Going through a divorce is never easy. It is normal to feel stressed out, confused, and to have a lot of questions about what comes next. If you are looking to get help, our experienced divorce lawyers in Ottawa can represent you to ensure the process runs as smoothly as possible. Our family lawyers will draft the necessary documents and represent you in a court of law to protect your interests throughout the entire process. Whether you need help with litigation, custody, marriage contracts, or family law matters, the right divorce lawyer can make the difference.
At RPB Family Law, our Ottawa divorce lawyers are compassionate, experienced, and future-focused advocates for our clients. You do not have to navigate the family law process alone. We handle all aspects of your divorce case—from paperwork to property division to child custody and child support. We believe that it is crucial for you to have legal services and advice from a trusted family law lawyer. If you have any questions or concerns about the divorce process, our legal team is here to help. Call us today or schedule an appointment online to arrange your confidential consultation.
Making Your Own Decisions vs. Hiring a Lawyer
You will not always need a lawyer for every divorce. Individuals who can resolve legal issues with their partners can go ahead on their own. However, it is still wise to seek independent legal advice from a family lawyer at a trusted law firm. This is especially true in contested divorce cases. You do not have to go through the family law process alone. Our Ottawa, Ontario divorce lawyers provide fully confidential, no obligation consultations. We will help you determine the best path forward.
Get Exceptional Support with Your Divorce in Ottawa
Our Ottawa family law team understands that divorce is a complex and emotionally charged process. We firmly believe that one-size-fits-all legal representation is not good enough for our clients. Our goal is to protect your rights and help you navigate the legal intricacies of a divorce. You deserve exceptional guidance and support in your divorce case. Filing a divorce is as emotionally demanding as it is physically demanding. Here is what we can help with:
- Negotiate a Separation Agreement
- Prepare equalization and Net Family Property (NFP) calculations
- Attend and prepare for mediation
- Litigate in court, including drafting and preparing court documents
The Divorce Act, R.S.C. 1985, c. 3, governs the procedure through which a couple may legally dissolve their marriage. The Divorce Act is a federal law, although divorce procedures are the responsibility of the provinces and territories. You will need to complete the appropriate forms for your province or territory and submit them to a court. Or, our expert lawyers are more than happy to perform this task on your behalf. Adhering to the guidelines of the court handling your divorce is essential. You may be required to pay an application fee as well.
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Michael took out all the stress from the process.
Michael did a great job efficiently and quickly. I only had to provide him info. Michael took out all the stress from the process. His fees were also very reasonable.
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WE HANDLE ALL TYPES OF FAMILY LAW ISSUES IN DIVORCE
Ending a marriage involves more than just completing the correct paperwork and submitting the right forms. It’s about addressing all pertinent family law issues to safeguard your rights and ensure a secure future. At RPB Family Law, our Ottawa lawyers invest time, resources, and meticulous attention to manage each case appropriately. We assist our clients with all family law matters related to concluding their union, including:
- Property division;
- Debt division;
- Spousal support (alimony);
- Child custody and child visitation;
- Child time-sharing and decision-making; and
- Child support.
ENGAGING IN A SEPARATION AGREEMENT IN OTTAWA
Couples ending their relationship don’t have to get a divorce; they can separate and draft a separation agreement instead. If one party wants to remarry, they must obtain a formal divorce ruling and a certificate from the court. They still might need to address issues like spousal support, child custody, property division, and tax concerns.
They will make key decisions on property division, child support, and child decision-making and parenting for minor children. This option of working with the partner can benefit both parties as they save time and money and better control specific divorce issues. However, always consult a divorce lawyer before signing any agreement to protect your interests and rights. The parties involved often find separation agreements, marriage contracts, property issues, and dispute resolution exceptionally complicated.
APPLICATION FOR DIVORCE IN ONTARIO
According to data from Statista, Canada recorded 2.78 million marital dissolutions in 2022. When a couple goes through a “breakdown of their marriage,” either spouse can file under section 8(1) of the Act. They can submit the petition to the Unified Family Court or the Superior Court of Justice.
A marriage breakdown can arise from three grounds: cruelty, adultery, or a one-year separation. Our seasoned family law lawyers possess in-depth knowledge of this legal process and can assist you under the Divorce Act’s guidelines.
Working with a Lawyer in Ottawa
As discussed above, these cases and family disputes involve intense emotions, and they are complex in nature. Therefore, you will likely require a lawyer by your side to offer advice and handle all legal issues involved. Mainly, you will be hiring an attorney to help you and your partner work out the agreement or defend you against your spouse in court. Divorce lawyers are often involved in the legal process as each party typically has their best interests in mind. Thus, it is essential that you inquire whether the specific lawyer prefers collaborating or fighting in court, whether they would advise seeking settlement outside court, and their track records in handling such cases. The best divorce lawyer for you is the one who advocates for your interests.
What Our Divorce Lawyer will Do for You
Considering the potential legal risks and problems, it is clear that one needs a lawyer to check the agreement even in an uncontested divorce. The lawyer will:
- Attend mediation with you (if necessary),
- Draft agreements,
- Offer advice,
- File the divorce, and
- Attend any court hearings with you.
Divorce in Ottawa, Ontario: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the grounds for divorce in Ontario?
In Ottawa, like the rest of Canada, the sole legal reason for marital dissolution is a breakdown of the marriage. Canada adheres to a no-fault separation standard. The court emphasizes matters like property division and spousal support, not who was responsible for the marital breakdown.
Contested Versus Uncontested
A contested separation arises when spouses disagree on issues like child custody, support, or division of marital assets and debts during their marriage’s dissolution. The court must address at least one such issue. Conversely, an uncontested separation signifies a resolved situation.
How long does it take to end a marriage in Ottawa?
The time needed to conclude a marital dissolution varies based on the case’s complexity and whether parties contest it. An uncontested dissolution typically spans 3 to 6 months, while a contested one can extend beyond a year.
Discuss your case with our experienced Ottawa Divorce Lawyer
RPB Family Law in Ottawa offers legal advice and representation in divorce, separation, child support, and related cases. We prepare agreements for you, attend mediation, and litigate in court if necessary. To protect your rights and interests, book an appointment online today or contact us at 613-216-5044. From our law office in Ottawa, our family lawyers serve communities throughout the surrounding region in Ontario.