April 12, 2013
by Jennifer Samara Shuber
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The Worst Kept Legal Secret of the Decade: Family Law Needs A Complete Overhaul

Restructuring is what family law needs, says the as-of-yet unreleased report from the Cromwell committee to Chief Justice McLachlin of the Supreme Court of Canada.  No kidding.  Haven’t family lawyers and parties been saying exactly that forever?  I know I … Continue reading

February 20, 2013
by Jennifer Samara Shuber
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Ontario ruling supports same sex right to marry abroad…..

In January 2013, an experienced Ontario family court judge, the Honourable Madam Justice Mesbur, ruled that a British civil union between a same sex couple would be recognized as a marriage in Ontario for the purposes of property division, support … Continue reading

November 20, 2012
by Jennifer Samara Shuber
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Would Ronald’s real spouse please stand up?

Carrigan v Carrigan Estate is a recent Ontario Court of Appeal case grabbing headlines.  For family lawyers, the case underscores the importance of the domestic contracts, particularly the Separation Agreements, over whose drafting we toil.  For the general public, the Courts’ … Continue reading

August 8, 2012
by Jennifer Samara Shuber
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USES OF SKYPE TECHNOLOGY IN FAMILY LAW: PART II: CONNECTING FAMILIES

Many children do not enjoy daily standard face-to-face contact with both of their parents.  This is particularly true for separated and divorced families who no longer live together 24/7.   In recent years, parents and courts have made frequent use of … Continue reading

June 19, 2012
by Jennifer Samara Shuber
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Thorny Spousal Support Issues Post Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines

This is the second of two blog posts on the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (“SSAGs”), their applications and shortcomings.  Today, I comment on the use and abuse of the SSAGs in cases of payors in Ontario who earn more than … Continue reading

April 24, 2012
by Jennifer Samara Shuber
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Important Information on the Special Nature of the Matrimonial Home

A matrimonial home has special treatment under Ontario law.  Parties should be aware of the many ways in which a matrimonial home is treated differently from other assets, so that they can plan accordingly.  Since only married spouses can have … Continue reading