Lloydminster: 780.808.8084
We know that toxic stress and chronic conflict negatively impacts kids’ development. When you are separated and need to deal with facilitating a parenting schedule and exchanging kids, stress and conflict can occur especially at the point of the exchange. Here are some tips to reduce conflict during exchanges and improve kids’ experiences … Continue reading How do I improve transitions for kids between two homes?
There’s a new Act coming into force on January 1, 2020 – the Family Property Act – replacing the current Matrimonial Property Act. The biggest change is that this legislation now gives unmarried separating couples in Alberta the right to automatically divide their assets and debts. This is huge – until now, these … Continue reading Changes are Coming for Unmarried Separating Couples in Alberta – Jan 1, 2020
Each time I write about spousal support, I always repeat the same statement of principle – the determination of spousal support is more of an art than a science. This remains true. In order to determine whether you’re entitled to spousal support, you should begin by considering the factors set out in the … Continue reading How do I know if I’m entitled to spousal support?
What do children in the midst of their parents’ high conflict divorce want for Christmas? Ask them… they’ll tell you they want freedom from conflict – a gift that will last a lifetime. Wouldn’t that be a special gift for your children? When parents talk about how they will share holidays and special … Continue reading Give Your Children The Gift of A Conflict-Free Christmas
By agreement between you and your former spouse, you have a right to enter into a parenting arrangement with biological kids and/or step-kids. If you and your former spouse cannot agree, you may make an application to Court to ask for time with your step-kids. If you are unmarried and the kids reside … Continue reading As a step-parent, do I have a right to spend time with my step-kids after divorce?
The laws in Alberta vs. Saskatchewan regarding guardianship of children after the passing of one parent are quite different. Some parents think that it’s automatically the other parent that will get the kids. On the other hand, some parents try to put it in their Will as to who will get their kids, … Continue reading If I’m divorced, who will look after my kids in the event of my death?
If you are planning a trip to family law chambers in Alberta, you need to know about Practice Note 2 (PN2). There are strictly enforced rules about the nature and types of files that can be argued in morning chambers. These rules also extend to the length of time you are allowed to … Continue reading What is Practice Note 2?
When you’re separated, sometimes communicating with your ex can be difficult and can lead to conflict (intended or not). When I help clients develop a communication plan, it usually includes recommending that they use an app to communicate. There are tons of them out there, but my favourite is Our Family Wizard. At … Continue reading Improve Your Communication With Your Co-Parent – Our Family Wizard App
The issue of where a child should live following a divorce or separation is a common one. Parents constantly tell me that their child is telling them which parent they want to live with. The question often becomes how to ensure that the child’s voice is heard and given proper attention, without allowing … Continue reading When Can A Child Legally Decide Where They Want to Live?
The process to apply for legal aid is slightly different in Saskatchewan and in Alberta. FINANCIAL ELIGIBILITY: In both provinces, you must contact the regional legal aid office to apply for assistance from a legal aid lawyer. Each province will screen its applicants for financial eligibility. In Alberta, you will be screened based … Continue reading How do I apply for Legal Aid?