FAQs Written By Professionals in Canada
- "How do I ask my spouse for a divorce?"
Our entire lives are a process of changing and developing. Although we promise to remain married forever, it is not always possible to keep the promise. Usually, the decision to divorce is made after months and even years of silent deliberation. It is not made lightly, but even so, our spouses are rarely prepared to hear the words. As Shakespeare put it, "Though it be honest, it is never good / to bring bad news."
It takes courage to end a marriage. No one wants to hurt a partner intentionally, and there is no way to do it without causing pain. However, when you are certain that the marriage is over and the words must be said, it is better to get it over with quickly...
- "Can I get a divorce without a family lawyer?"
The paperwork is somewhat complicated, and there are strict rules about how to proceed, but you certainly can act on your own to get a divorce. There are kits available to help you with the procedure. However, you should understand your legal rights and obligations so as to make an informed decision.
In Canada, a divorce involves two parts: the "divorce," which ends the marriage, and "corollary relief," which deals with future parenting of your children and with child and spousal support. In addition, you will want to be sure that the property which you and your spouse have acquired during your marriage is divided between you...
- "I want a divorce, but I don't think I can afford it. What should I do?"
The first thing to do is to gather up all of your financial information. Sit down and develop two financial snapshots. Firstly, look at what you and your spouse own and owe and what income you have together. Secondly, look at the same picture separating out what things would theoretically look like if you split up. Typically, you each own half the house but there is probably a mortgage on it and it will have to be decided if one of you will stay in it and buy out the others interest or you will sell it and split any profits. RRSPs are split equally as well, as are most other assets except inheritances...
- "What do I need to provide for DNA paternity testing?"
The standard sample for a paternity test is a cheek swab...