Family Law Blog

These unprecedented times have many parents wondering about their ongoing child support obligations or entitlements in light of mass layoffs, decreased earnings, and lost childcare options.

As the coronavirus, COVID-19, spreads across Canada, and we see a rise in reported cases and fatalities, we also hear of the great work being performed by healthcare professionals as well as scientists trying to develop a vaccine for this deadly virus.

The economy in Alberta has taken a huge hit due to COVID 19 and the price of oil hitting record lows. As a result, many more couples are receiving loans or gifts of cash from their families to help them get by. Normally, this is not a problem.  However, when couples separate or divorce it inevitably creates an issue.

We are often asked about how to obtain an annulment for a short-term marriage, however, there seems to be a common misconception that the duration of the marriage is what allows a person to obtain an annulment.

With the rapidly evolving developments surrounding COVID-19, many people are worried about the impact the pandemic will have on their separation and divorce.

The concerns with the COVID-19 pandemic have grown exponentially in just a short period of time – and for good reason when you look at what China and Italy are going through.

On March 15, 2020, Alberta Courts announced a suspension of sittings, effective immediately. Except for a few very limited exceptions, the Court will not be hearing any family law matters.

Over the past week it has become clear that we are living in extraordinary times which require changes to the way we operate as a firm. Some of these changes are out of our control and some we are instituting to protect the well being of our clients, staff and lawyers.

Research tells us that divorce is the second most stressful event that can occur in a person’s life.

In family law and Divorce litigation, you can be awarded “costs”, also known as “court costs” if you are successful in court.