FAQs Written By Professionals in Canada
- "I'm not certain my family lawyer has a good handle on the financial aspects of my divorce; I'm not convinced I'm getting my fair share. What should I do?"
Accountant and business valuator Andrew Freedman answers: "The value of private company business is a common issue of concern between separating couples. The amount determined would have a direct impact on the payment that is to be received by the non-owning spouse. How is the value determined? Who is responsible for its calculation? These are concerns frequently encountered.
You should ask your lawyer what value your spouse has attributed to his business and real estate interests. Then ask how they were determined. What action you should take depends on the answer to this last question..."
- "I'm starting to dread my stepchildren's visits. What should I do?"
Divorce lawyer-mediator Barbara Landau answers: "Your dilemma is a familiar one: whether to be cast in the role of the awful stepmother or to suffer in silence like Cinderella. Neither of these options sounds very promising. When you feel caught between a number of unattractive alternatives, it's a good idea to stand back and clarify your objectives.
First, maintaining a good relationship with your husband should be a high priority. For this reason, it would be unwise to put him in the position of choosing between pleasing you and jeopardizing his relationship with the children. When parents have a limited amount of time with their children, they are often anxious about setting limits out of fear that the children may choose not to come for a scheduled visit..."
- "What can I do to gain the self-confidence to go dancing?"
Dance instructor Joel Wood answers: "By identifying your challenges, you've taken the first step to achieving your goal. The good news is that a good instructor at a reputable studio really can teach you to dance socially with confidence -- despite what your ex-wife thought about your lack of ability.
At a singles dance, the first challenge facing you is to put your ego on the line by asking an interesting person to dance with you -- and then accepting her response graciously. If she says " yes," then you're facing the next hurdle: now you have to " show your stuff" as you float around the floor guiding this new partner. Your dance together will be a success if you can keep it interesting for both of you, avoid bumping into other couples, and make light conversation while you dance..."