Separation and family disputes are hard on everyone, and hardest on children. We help with divorce, parenting, support, property, protection orders, and child protection. If you are in danger, call 911.
We listen first. Then we explain your options and agree on a plan with you.
We explain the law that applies to you in plain language, usually the Divorce Act and Alberta's Family Law Act and Family Property Act.
Settling usually costs less and takes less time than a court fight. When a fair settlement is not possible, we take the case to court.
We accept Legal Aid Alberta certificates for family cases, including protection order hearings. To apply for Legal Aid, contact Legal Aid Alberta.
An uncontested divorce (where you both agree on everything) usually takes three to four months after the application is filed. If you and your spouse disagree on parenting, support, or property, it can take a year or more, especially if the case goes to trial.
You do not have to have a lawyer, but decisions about your children matter. A family lawyer can explain your rights under the Family Law Act and the Divorce Act, prepare your evidence, and present your case in court or in mediation.
Child support is set by the Child Support Guidelines. The amount depends on the paying parent's yearly income and the number of children. If each parent has the children at least 40% of the time, a different calculation may apply. Parents may also share costs such as child care, medical costs, and activities in proportion to their incomes.
A protection order is a court order under Alberta's Protection Against Family Violence Act. It can stop a family member from contacting you or coming near you. A justice of the Alberta Court of Justice or a justice of the peace can grant an emergency protection order within hours, even outside court hours.
The Family Property Act applies to married spouses and adult interdependent partners (unmarried partners who meet the legal test). Property gained during the relationship is generally divided equally. Property owned before the relationship began, or received as a gift or inheritance, may be exempt, but an increase in its value during the relationship may be shared.
These answers are general information about the law, not legal advice. Reading this page or contacting us does not make you our client.
