Navigating child support can be complex–especially when one or both parents are self-employed. Unlike salaried employees with a predictable income, self-employed individuals often have fluctuating earnings, tax deductions and business expenses that can complicate the child support calculations process. Yet, the child still needs consistent financial support, no matter how the parent earns income. The…
In Ontario, spousal support is not automatic. Courts must assess eligibility based on well-established legal principles. The goal of this process ensures fairness when one person experiences financial disadvantage because of the relationship. Sometimes referred to as alimony, spousal support exists to address economic disparities that arise after separation. It may compensate one party for…
Ontario offers two primary routes to adoption: public and private. Both processes fall under Ontario’s Child, Youth and Family Services Act, 2017 (CYFSA) and require rigorous assessment, education, and legal scrutiny. However, the steps, timelines, financial obligations, and even the nature of the parent-child match work differently. This blog will help you choose a route…
Many couples immigrate to Canada together, but relationships can change over time. If you are considering separation or divorce, you may be wondering what legal steps to take. Ontario courts recognize foreign marriages as long as you meet specific requirements. All decisions must be made based on The Divorce Act. Let’s break down different concepts…
Life is unpredictable, and planning for your family’s future is a responsibility many take seriously. It’s as simple as not wanting your loved ones to feel a financial burden if you become disabled or pass away. But here’s the big question for many Canadian Muslims: Is life insurance halal? Some say it’s a smart way…
When life changes, so do financial circumstances. Your child’s financial needs increase as they grow older. New school supplies, extracurricular activities, or unexpected medical expenses can stretch your budget. This raises an important question: can the amount of child support be changed? Child support isn’t a fixed arrangement and can be modified to align with…
Changing a child’s last name is often causing tension between parents. In Ontario, though not straightforward, a parent may choose to change their child’s last name after divorce. It is governed by Section 5(1) of the Change of Name Act, which states parents must meet certain legal requirements. If both parents have joint custody or…
A couple, whether married or separating, may want to draft a separation agreement to formalise their responsibilities and rights moving forward. You can include clauses for property division, child support, spousal support, and parenting arrangements to minimise communication and arguments afterwards. One common question separating couples ask is “how long does a separation agreement last?”…
Life changes, and what worked for you during your separation may no longer fit your current circumstances. If you’ve signed a separation agreement, you might wonder if it can be changed later. Yes! You can make changes to your separation agreement. In this blog we cover when changes are allowed, what kind of changes can…
A prenuptial agreement can feel like a heavy topic to bring up before marriage, but it’s all about protecting both partners. It is one of the smartest decisions a to-be-married couple can make. In Ontario, prenuptial agreements are recognized legally and can protect your assets, and of course, save you a lot of headaches down…