Since July, 2016, families with children have been eligible to receive a tax-free benefit from the Federal government called the Canada Child Benefit. This replaced the previous Canada Child Tax [...]

Both the Family Law Act in Ontario and the federal Divorce Act give the authority for judges to order periodic spousal support, lump sum spousal support, or both. As pointed out in a recent post, [...]

Child custody is a term that comes up pretty quickly when parents separate. It’s important to understand what child custody is and what types there are before decisions are made. Custody means a [...]

In Canada, periodic spousal support amounts paid pursuant to a Court order or written agreement are tax deductible by the payor and are taxable income to the recipient.   The rules are set out in [...]

Arbitration is an alternative dispute resolution process available to separated couples.   The parties choose an arbitrator, who then acts like a judge to make decisions for the parties.  The [...]

Throughout life, many people will encounter a family situation that calls for professional help and expertise that they do not possess.  For instance, a person may need assistance to resolve a [...]

When intended parents resident in Ontario use a surrogate or an egg or sperm donor, there are different ways that those intended parents can become legally recognized parents. Where intended [...]

This case involved a woman, M.R.R. who wished to become a parent. She had unsuccessfully tried to conceive a child using donor sperm at a fertility clinic. A friend (and former romantic partner), [...]

With Valentine’s Day approaching, many contemplate the idea of proposing to The One. While the engagement ring is all about romance, everlasting love and a life-time commitment, it is somewhat [...]