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.