This FAQ builds on work done by others: a paper written by Julie Shaw and a published paper written by Sandra M. Stith and Eric E. McCollum. There are different opinions about whether or not it is appropriate for a…
Category: Frequently asked questions
What is independent legal advice and when does a women need it?
Before a woman signs any kind of agreement related to her family law issues, she should obtain independent legal advice (ILA). This means she needs to meet with her own lawyer to review whatever the agreement may be. Common agreements…
How can alternative dispute resolution help me with my family law matter?
Looking for a basic introduction to alternative dispute resolution? Also known as ADR, these are ways to solve family law problems other than going to court. Mediation, arbitration and collaborative family law are forms of ADR. Learn about these alternatives…
Court etiquette: How should I behave in family court?
When you go to family court, you will be focused on thinking about your case. Good manners may be the last thing on your mind. However, your case will move along more smoothly and you may feel more comfortable while…
Tagged with: court security
What is a parenting plan? Part 2
This is the second of two blog posts on parenting plans. In the first post we examined the purposes of a parenting plan and reviewed key components of the best interests of the child test. In this post, we’ll set…
What is a parenting plan? Part 1
Whether a woman is preparing her parenting plan during or after her court case, the basic principles remain the same. This is the first of two blog posts on parenting plans. In this post we’ll examine the purposes of a…
Do I qualify for spousal support?
This is the third in a 3-part series on women’s financial rights and responsibilities when a relationship ends. Part 1 looked at property division and Part 2 covered determining the date of separation. Whether you are married or living common-law…
How do I determine the date we separated?
This is the second in a 3-part series on women’s financial rights and responsibilities when a relationship ends. Part 1 looks at property division and Part 3 discusses spousal support. Determining the date of separation is not always easy. Some…
Tagged with: separation
What should I do if a woman tells me she plans to violate the custody order because she has serious concerns for the safety of the child?
When facing legal and ethical challenges, there are a variety of strategies that will help service providers manage the situation. Here are some other situations that could raise similar legal and ethical challenges: A client or former client calls to…
Tagged with: ethical issues
What is financial abuse?
You may have been subjected to financial abuse during your relationship, and it may be continuing now that you have left. This kind of abuse is common, and can take many forms, including: Your partner controls the money and makes…
