Family Law

We assist you through difficult times, aiming to make the transition as easy as possible for you and your family.

Overview

Getting through a separation

Divorce can be an emotionally draining time for everyone involved. The decisions around children, finances, and property swirl through your mind as you think about your next steps. While difficult, you don’t have to go through this chapter in your life alone. Our team of Family Law Professionals can offer clarity and guidance throughout the entire separation process.

How our family & divorce lawyers can help

Stringam’s family & divorce lawyers help you navigate the tough waters of divorce and separation. While alternative dispute resolutions such as mediation or arbitration are ideal, we are fully ready to represent you in the courts when necessary.

No matter your situation, our team of divorce lawyers will counsel you on what actions to take and what to avoid. Although divorce can have the potential to spiral into negativity between the two parties, we will work hard to protect your reputation. We understand emotions are high during these times. Our lawyers will help you channel these emotions into an effective strategy, looking out for you and your family’s best interests at all times.

Backed by decades of family law experience

The stakes are high when it comes to matters of divorce, child custody, property, and more. Our team has intimate knowledge of family and divorce law, representing clients from all walks of life. We understand the legal nuances that can make or break your case.

You don’t have to figure this out on your own. Let our experienced team help.

What We Can Help With

Adoptions

Adoption is a life-changing step in building a family. We’re here to gently guide you through the legal process with care, support, and clarity, helping you focus on what matters most — your growing family.

Prenuptials

A Prenuptial Agreement isn’t about mistrust; it’s about having a clear conversation in advance of a major and exciting new chapter. We help you create thoughtful prenuptial agreements that are fair, respectful, and designed to support both partners as you begin your life together.

Child custody and access

We understand how important your relationship with your children is. Our role is to help you navigate parenting arrangements with care and compassion, always keeping your child’s well-being and best interests at the heart of every decision.

Mobility/Relocation

Relocation matters involve a parent’s right to move with a child and how that impacts existing parenting arrangements. We provide guidance to help you navigate these sensitive decisions with clarity and your child’s well-being and best interests at the center.

Separation Agreements

Separation can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. We can help you create clear and fair separation agreements that bring structure, understanding, and peace of mind during a difficult transition.

Constructive Trust

When financial contributions or property interests become complex, we’re here to help you make sense of it all. We provide guidance to help you understand your rights and work toward fair and equitable outcomes.

Child support/Arrears

Child support is about ensuring children are cared for and supported. Whether you’re establishing, reviewing, or addressing missed payments, we are here to help you navigate the process with fairness and clarity.

Spousal / Partner Support

After separation, questions surrounding financial support can feel stressful and uncertain for everyone involved. We’re here to help you understand what’s fair and required and guide you through the process with care and respect.

Family Property

Dividing family property can feel complicated and emotional. We can help you work through the process with experience and compassion, so you can move forward with confidence and security.

Common law separation

Separation for common-law partners can raise many questions about property, support, and parenting. We’re here to help you understand where you stand and guide you towards practical solutions.

Meet The Family Law Team

Connect with our lawyers specialising in Family Law for personalised legal guidance.

FAQs

When should I speak with a family lawyer?

It is helpful to seek legal advice as early as possible when dealing with separation, parenting issues, support concerns, or property matters. Early guidance can help you understand your rights, reduce uncertainty, and make informed decisions moving forward.

Uncontested vs. Contested Divorce

In general, divorce cases in Western Canada begin when one of the spouses (the “Plaintiff”) files a “Statement of Claim for Divorce” and serves it to the other spouse (the “Defendant”). This document addresses key considerations, including grounds for divorce, child support, spousal support, parenting details, and division of property.

If both parties agree on all matters, you can avoid the court process altogether. This is known as an uncontested divorce. However, if there are major disputes about how family property, support, and parenting should be addressed, a contested divorce may ensue. This option will require court intervention and is the more costly and time consuming of the two alternatives.

Can I move with my child after separation?

Relocation after separation can have a significant impact on parenting arrangements and more often that does not require notice to the other parent or court approval. Before making plans to move with a child, it is important to understand your legal rights and obligations under the law, and speak with a trusted family lawyer.

Do common-law couples have rights?

Yes. In Canada, common-law couples have varying legal rights and responsibilities relating to parenting, child support, spousal support, and property division. These rights depend on the province or territory you live in, and the specific circumstances and duration of the relationship. We can help you understand how the law applies to your situation and what options may be available to you.

What happens if child or spousal support payments are missed?

Missed child or spousal support payments may be enforced through provincial or territorial enforcement programs across Canada. Enforcement measures can include wage garnishment, interception of tax refunds, or other collection measures. Whether you are seeking enforcement or responding to support concerns, we can help you understand your rights and available options.