Your Trusted Family Law Advocates in Calgary: How Our Client-Centric Approach Works
- Begin with a family lawyer Calgary free consultation
- Listen to your story and gather the facts
- Present options
- Develop a strategy to achieve your goals
- Implement the strategy
- Get you the best possible outcome in your case
Our family lawyers help with:
- Divorces and Common Law Separations
- Mediations
- Separation agreements
- Marriage contracts (Prenuptial and Cohabitation Agreements)
- Partner Support Agreements
- Applications for equalization of assets and property division
- Motions to change support
- Advising on the division of pensions
- Applications for child and spousal support
- Applications to vary child and spousal support
- Applications for parenting time and decision making responsibility
- Advising you in the division of your pension
- Grandparent’s Rights
Reach Out for a Divorce Lawyer Calgary Free Consultation – a Trusted Family Law Firm
Our approach is centred around you, the client, and your individual circumstances. During our free consultation, we take the time to listen to your unique situation, identifying key assets and stakeholders, and then build a strategy that will best serve you and your family.
Children
How will my children experience the separation?
Experiencing fear and anger during separation is a common emotional response for both children and adults. That said, it’s crucial to acknowledge that infants, children, preteens, and teenagers may express their feelings and manage separation differently, each in their own distinctive manner.
Infants and Toddlers 0-5
Even though infants and toddlers may not grasp the concept of parental separation, they are acutely aware of their environment. They can detect when a parent is preoccupied, under stress, or upset.
Without the ability to verbalize their feelings, infants and toddlers often express themselves through crying or fussing. Lacking the ability to articulate and regulate their emotions, they rely entirely on the consistent care and affection of a devoted parent for their day-to-day needs.
For parents navigating a separation, the most effective way to support your infant or toddler during this transition is by providing steady and dependable care that meets both their physical and emotional requirements. Ideally, efforts should be made to shield your infant or toddler from any animosity or disputes, if possible.
Source: Government of Canada
Children age 6-11
Young children struggle to grasp the complexities of a separation, their emotions, and the reasons behind those feelings. They find it challenging to envision a different life from their current one, lacking the cognitive abilities and experiences needed to understand a future where their parents live apart. Despite this, children instinctively try to make sense of their changing world. Lacking the maturity to see things from a broader perspective, they often mistakenly hold themselves accountable for the separation.
For children this age, their self-identity is shaped through interactions with their parents, and witnessing parental conflicts can make them feel directly involved. It’s difficult for children to comprehend why the two most crucial figures in their lives, whom they rely on for security and well-being, are no longer going to be partners.
Given this, it’s vital to affirm that both parents will continue to be a part of the child’s life, emphasizing that despite changes, your love for them and your support will remain constant.
For preschoolers and young children, clarity and specificity about what the separation will mean for their daily lives are crucial. Provide concrete information about when and where changes will occur, including living arrangements and the times they will spend with each parent. Reflect on your own childhood experiences to better understand and address the concerns your child might have upon learning about the separation.
Source: Government of Canada
Preteens & Teenagers 12-18
Navigating the teenage years is challenging, as preteens and teens are at a stage where they grasp the complexities of separation while simultaneously exploring their individual identities.
During this period of intense development, teenagers experience conflicting desires: they seek independence yet crave security, yearn for freedom but also require guidance. Unlike younger children who might attribute separation to external factors, preteens and teens are more likely to hold their parents responsible for the divorce, often responding with feelings of anger or sadness. Particularly, older teens may question their ability to form lasting relationships themselves.
Teenagers benefit from an increased maturity and a deeper understanding of interpersonal relationships, which also makes them acutely aware of the impending changes separation will bring, affecting everything from living arrangements to their school and social lives. This awareness leads preteens and teens to concern themselves with the immediate and long-term implications of the separation. Supporting them involves encouraging open discussions about their emotions, disappointments, and fears, allowing them input on managing the forthcoming changes, and collaborating with them to devise solutions.
Source: Government of Canada
Children
Talking to Your Children About Your Separation
(and Preparing Them for Change)
What are they feeling?
What I Want from My Parents: An Unspoken Wish List
I need both of you to be in my life. When you don’t stay involved, I feel like I am not important and I miss you a lot.
When you fight in front of me, I want to run and hide.
Please try hard to work together to raise me. I want you both to be my parents.
It hurts me when you say negative things about my other parent, because I love them.
Please don’t ask me to take sides. I want to love you both. If you act jealous or upset, I feel like I need to take sides.
I am afraid to tell you how I feel because it might hurt you, and I don’t want to hurt you.
Please communicate directly with my other parent so that I don’t have to send messages back and forth. I don’t want the job of being a messenger – I just want to be a kid.
Please ask me my opinion when you need to make a decision about me. When you do, I feel loved, respected and more in control.
Please take care of yourself and ask other adults to help you cope. When I see that you are taking care of yourself, I worry less and feel more secure that you will be there to take care of my needs.
Source: Government of Canada
What are the difficult questions?
Expect Tears, Protests and Lots of Questions
- Why are you getting divorced?
- Why can’t you just stay together?
- Don’t you love each other anymore?
- It’s not fair!
- Did I do something wrong?
- Is this my fault? Can I make it better?
- Where am I going to live?
- Do we have to move?
- What am I going to tell my friends?
- Is there a chance that you will get back together?
Finances
How to think about division of assets
Typically, a separation involves one party providing financial support to the other and the distribution of their shared assets.
Ensuring accuracy in financial assessments is paramount for your financial well-being. It’s also important to determine your priorities and consult with your lawyer for possible options.
Matrimonial / Family Home
The family home is typically the most valuable asset owned by a couple.
Division of the family home (also known as the matrimonial home) can be particularly challenging due to the deep emotional connections often formed with the property. These challenges are intensified when children are involved, who may live near their schools, as selling the home can dramatically alter their lives. As such, we frequently help parents navigate buyout negotiations for their family home. If a buyout isn’t financially feasible, strategically planning the sale during peak housing market periods becomes essential.
When considering selling a home, it’s vital for a separating couple to monitor their respective contributions to ongoing expenses, maintain a cooperative relationship, and ensure the home is legally recognized as a family property.
Decisions about whether to stay in or leave the family home must be based on a thorough understanding of the couple’s unique situation. Remaining in the home, when there are no safety concerns, might postpone its sale, especially if the residing spouse lacks motivation to sell. Leaving the home can also affect one’s rights concerning child custody. Consequently, unless safety issues necessitate departure, consulting a lawyer for advice on the timing of leaving the home is recommended.
Pension
Wondering about the fate of your pension?
Pensions vary greatly, necessitating distinct strategies for their assessment and division.
In a separation, pensions are considered assets for division, but only the portion accrued during the marriage is divisible.
Our legal team specializes in the intricacies of pension division. We’re eager to discuss your specific pension type, how to accurately evaluate it, and the most effective method for its division.
Finances
How we help
- Negotiating a buyout of your home.
- Dividing your pension.
- Clarifying your spousal/partner and child support responsibilities and entitlements.
- Understanding the financial repercussions of your divorce.
- Grasping the implications of divorce on your business.
- Planning retirement in the context of your divorce.
- Assisting with the equitable and favourable dividing your assets.
Support
Child and Partner Support that Maintains Your Family’s Financial Security:
At Unified, we help you build a plan for the future. This plan is built on three key foundations:
- Ensuring you have sufficient resources
- Investing in your child’s future
- Saving money for your retirement
Support
What to consider regarding Partner and Child support
Are you entitled to spousal/partner support?
Entitlement to Spousal/Partner Support
Spousal/partner support entitlement rests on three principles:
- Compensatory;
- Contractual;
- Non-compensatory.
Following the dissolution of a marriage, spouses may claim support as reparation for their contributions to the marriage and for the financial setbacks endured due to the marriage. Such compensation considers the “condition,” “means, needs, and other circumstances” of the spouse in question.
Non-compensatory grounds for spousal support include objectives aimed at mitigating any financial difficulties resulting from the marriage’s end and encouraging financial independence for both spouses in a reasonable timeframe. Periodic payments may not be deemed suitable in cases where a significant lump sum has been disbursed and the terms of duration fall comfortably within the established guidelines.
How Much Support Am I entitled to?
Once eligibility for Spousal/Partner Support is established, the next step is to determine the amount. This can vary significantly based on the classification of incomes and the deductions applicable to either spouse. It’s a crucial step to ensure the support amount is equitable.
After establishing the incomes, the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines suggest a range for the support amount, including its duration and frequency.
The specific position within this range heavily depends on factors such as the marriage’s length, the spouses’ roles within the relationship, and their capacity for financial independence. For a thorough exploration of the factors influencing these decisions, please refer to our insights section.
From Uncontested to Contested Trials
Uncontested Divorce:
In the event of an amicable separation, including Simple Divorce and Joint Divorce, our dedicated team manages the legal process, paperwork, and other fine details.
Contested Divorce:
In the event of a complex divorce case that involves intricate property division and spousal support negotiations, our experienced spousal support lawyers will work to ensure your rights and interests are protected throughout the legal process.
Separation Agreement:
Safeguard your spousal rights and assets with a bespoke separation agreement drafted by leading family law lawyers.
Spousal Support and Alimony:
We represent clients that are both payees and recipients of spousal support, ensuring their legal rights are protected.
Property and Asset Division:
Our objective is to determine an equitable division of marital assets.
Post-Divorce Modifications:
We help modify and update your divorce agreement to align with your current situation.
Understanding foreign divorce recognition
Obtain legal recognition in Canada of a foreign divorce with our help.
Custody, Parenting, Visitation, and Parental Relocation
Child Custody/Parenting:
We work tirelessly on behalf of our clients to protect your custody rights. We always aim to negotiate custody arrangements that are in the best interests of you and your children.
Visitation:
We work to obtain equitable visitation rights prioritizing the well-being and happiness of the children.
Parental Relocation Consultation:
Moving homes can complicate custody agreements. Our team’s goal it so maintain your child’s safety and protect their interests throughout the consultation process.
Modification of Custody/Parenting and Support Orders:
Things change. Create an updated version of your agreement that more aligns with your current situation.
Child Custody Agreements:
Unique agreements that protect the health and safety of your children – always.
Our Commitment to Your Child’s Wellbeing
Child Support:
Negotiate child support payments that are fair and accurate.
Prenuptial and Cohabitation Agreements Tailored for Couples
Prenuptial Agreements:
Protect your assets with compassionately crafted agreements.
Marriage Contracts:
Set terms you need without insulting your partner.
Standstill Agreements:
Put in place protections after you are married, giving you the time needed to build an equitable marriage contract or other arrangement.
Cohabitation Agreements:
Establish the financial and parental rights and responsibilities for unmarried couples.
Full Financial Disclosure: Unveiling Hidden Assets for Fair Division
Asset Disclosure:
We leverage a variety of assets to ensure the other discloses any assets they may be attempting to hide and are then included in the proceeding, ensuring full fairness when engaging in property division.
Hidden Assets:
If you suspect assets are hidden, we work with appropriate financial experts to uncover them and have them included in the proceedings.
Mediation, Arbitration, and Litigation Services for Your Peace of Mind
Family Mediation and Family Arbitration:
We help with alternative dispute resolution methods that simplify legal issues without court intervention, emphasizing compassion and understanding.
Family Court Proceedings:
If court intervention becomes unavoidable, our experienced family lawyers are ready to ably defend your interests in court.
Calgary Family Lawyers Helping You Secure Your Future
Work with a team of leading family lawyers in Calgary ready to tackle all your family law needs.
Family Law Lawyer Calgary FAQ
Read below for common inquiries regarding a family law lawyer in Calgary below.
What is the role of a family lawyer in Calgary?
A family lawyer in Calgary specializes in a wide range of family law practice areas, including divorce, child custody, parenting, and visitation, separation agreements, prenuptial agreements, spousal/partner support, division of assets, and resolution of family disputes, among other issues. They provide legal counsel, representation, and assistance throughout the entire legal procedure.
How can I find the right Calgary family lawyer?
Securing the appropriate family lawyer in Calgary is crucial; without one, you could find yourself at a significant disadvantage in addressing your family law challenges. Initiating your search with online research, seeking referrals from friends and family, and perusing reviews and client testimonials is a wise first step.
What services do family lawyers offer in Calgary?
In Calgary, a family lawyer is proficient in numerous aspects of family law, encompassing divorce, child custody and access, separation agreements, premarital contracts, alimony, asset distribution, and settling family conflicts, to name a few. They offer legal advice, act on your behalf, and support you through every step of the legal process.
How much does hiring a Calgary family lawyer cost?
The expense associated with engaging a family lawyer in Calgary can fluctuate based on your case’s intricacy, the attorney’s level of experience, and their billing practices. For a clearer understanding of potential fees, consider arranging a complimentary consultation with a family lawyer at Unified LLP.
How do I set up a family lawyer free consultation?
Reach out! You can contact us here or get in contact with a leading Unified LLP family lawyer here, or book your family lawyer Calgary free consultation here.
What should I bring to my family lawyer Calgary free consultation?
There’s no requirement to bring any documents or items to your initial consultation with a family law attorney in Calgary.
How long does it take to resolve family legal matters?
The length of time needed to resolve family legal issues can significantly differ, influenced by the case’s complexity and the resolution method—be it negotiation, mediation, or court litigation. After evaluating your particular situation, we will be in a stronger position to estimate the expected duration of the process.
Can I represent myself in family court or do I need a team of Calgary family lawyers?
Although self-representation is an option, it’s strongly recommended to secure legal representation through a team of experienced family lawyers in Calgary. Family law is intricate and often emotionally intense, putting individuals without legal expertise at a significant disadvantage. Engaging a proficient family lawyer greatly enhances your ability to safeguard your rights and interests.
What qualities should I look for in a family law lawyer Calgary?
Seek out a lawyer who is not only experienced but also communicative and empathetic, someone committed to tirelessly advocating on your behalf to safeguard your rights during the legal proceedings. They must be aware of both legal standards relating to family law in addition to case law in order to most effectively represent you.
Can you help resolve child support and spousal support issues?
Absolutely, even in cases where parties are in agreement, employing a family lawyer can safeguard your interests and guarantee compliance with all legal stipulations. A family lawyer assists in creating equitable agreements and navigating the legal system to ensure thoroughness. Our expertise encompasses the Divorce Act and all pertinent legislation.
Do I need a family law lawyer even if my divorce is amicable?
Certainly, securing a family lawyer is beneficial even in harmonious situations to safeguard your rights and ensure all legal obligations are fulfilled. A family lawyer can aid in crafting equitable arrangements and lead you through the legal journey, making certain no detail is missed. We have extensive experience with the complexities and nuances of the Divorce Act and all other relevant legal acts. In the Province of Alberta this includes the Adult Interdependent Relationships Act, Family Law Act, and the Family Property Act
Our expertise in family law
Our group of family law attorneys offers extensive legal support, advocating for clients in both court proceedings and negotiation settings. Covering a range of family law matters from divorce agreements to issues regarding the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act of Alberta and the Ministry of Children and Family Services, the team at Unified LLP is here to ensure you have the best chance at achieving a favourable outcome.
Understanding the challenges you and your family may be facing during this period, our experienced family law attorneys are dedicated to handling your legal matters with utmost efficiency. Whether it involves dividing family property, addressing custody and access to your children, or finalizing a divorce, the Unified team is committed to providing you with peace of mind. Contact us today to get started with our family law services, including representation for divorce, custody, and spousal support negotiations.
What other practice areas do you serve?
We maintain physical offices in both Alberta and Ontario. Our team can provide legal representation as your:
This FAQ is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with a qualified family services lawyer at Unified LLP to get specific professional advice regarding your concerns. If you’re in need of a family lawyer free consultation, don’t hesitate to contact us or call at 403-906-2351.
