A look at surrogacy laws around the world – Part 1
There are few things that give me greater joy as a lawyer than helping a surrogate or intended parents through their surrogacy journey.
The family lawyers from Crossroads Law located in Vancouver BC and Calgary AB have a client centred approach to help you successfully navigate the family law system. Our experienced family and divorce lawyers author these blogs to provide you insight and to help you through this challenging time.
Does failure to pay child support lead to jail time?
At Crossroads Law, we often receive inquiries from parents owed child support and wanting help to ensure child support is paid. Generally, the first step is to register the Court Order with the Maintenance Enforcement Program (“MEP”).
The Case for Mediation Over Court
Many people are disappointed to find that after going through a stressful, lengthy and expensive legal battle, not everything is settled. Fortunately, there is a better way: mediation.
Mediation: Is It One Size Fits All?
Contrary to perception, there are different models of mediation that can be used for your particular Family or Divorce action. Knowing the models available can likely help you decide what would be best for your unique situation.
Supervised Parenting – A Cautionary Tale
Supervised parenting time can be considered one step away from a complete termination of access. It is not meant to be a permanent solution, and is only necessary in exceptional circumstances where a child’s physical or emotional safety are at risk with a parent.
Welcome to our newest Vancouver Family Lawyer, Tanya Thakur
The team at Crossroads Law has had a busy year so far and we are pleased to announce the addition of a new Vancouver Family Lawyer, Tanya Thakur.
Iranian divorce: How to get your divorce recognized in Iran?
Iran, like a number of countries, does not automatically recognize the orders of Canadian courts in matters of family law. So, what are the implications for Iranian couples seeking divorce in Canada?
Can I get an Annulment?
By definition, an annulment is a circumstance where there is a nullity of the marriage. A declaration of nullity may be obtained in two situations.
A Gift or Marital Property?
The gifts exchanged in a marriage – they could be jewelry, cars, boats, antiques, art. In some cases, even real estate, a condominium or a house. During a separation or divorce, spouses might claim these gifts as marital property.
A Q&A on Divorce Jurisdiction Issues
Section 3(1) of the Divorce Act stipulates that a court has jurisdiction to hear and determine a divorce proceeding if either spouse has been an “habitually resident” in the province for at least one year immediately preceding the commencement of the proceeding.
How do I get retroactive child support?
Retroactive support issues are often reported by our clients. Here we look at the list of factors taken into consideration by the Supreme Court of Canada and how you can strengthen your claim for retroactive support.
What is the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP)?
FMEP can be a valuable ally in securing your support. If there are concerns about future payments, or there are ongoing instances of not being paid, not being paid the right amount, or not being paid on time, the FMEP can help remedy the situation. They also retain the option of going to court if necessary.
Child Support – The Ties That Bind
Child support is the right of the child, not the spouse who receives it. Prospectively paid month-to-month, and based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines correlated to the spouse’s income – typically Line 15000 of their tax return (formally, Line 150) – child support in most cases involves payment on the 1st of each month.
Collaborative divorce and online dispute resolution: How COVID-19 is changing the way we settle disputes
Crossroads Law founder, Marcus Sixta explains how the pandemic has led to more lawyers and clients successfully resolving family disputes online, relying on alternative dispute resolution processes such as the collaborative divorce and mediation.
What does a family law legal assistant or paralegal do?
What exactly is the role of a legal assistant or paralegal in a family law firm? They only deal with scheduling meetings and answering phone calls, right?
Is The COVID 19 Vaccination Safe for Children? How Do Courts Decide?
While all of us look forward to better days ahead, the idea of vaccinating children may stir up long-standing divisions for some separated parents.
Mediation Minus the Lawyers
Engage any legal professional and they will advise that mediation is a proven method of dispute resolution.
How Do I Obtain a Desk Order Divorce?
Getting a divorce from the court can be a straightforward family law process if you and your ex agree on everything and if you have the time to do all the paperwork yourself.
Where There is a Will – There is a Way.
“It is on my TO-DO list!”. We have all made this excuse. However, putting together an estate plan including a Last Will and Testament should be at the top of that list.
Welcome to our newest Vancouver family lawyer, Jenna Lalani
As we enter a new year, Crossroads Law is excited to announce the addition of another lawyer to our growing Vancouver office.
The information contained in this blog is not legal advice and should not be construed as legal advice on any subject. The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only.