My child is transgender. How will the court treat my custody case and which name and pronoun will they use?

 My child is transgender. How will the court treat my custody case and which name and pronoun will they use?

Courts in Canada have repeatedly recognized the right of a child to have the name, gender expression and gender identity of their choosing. Even if you have not legally changed your child’s name and gender marker, a Nova Scotia court will use the name and pronouns indicated by parents in the application.

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My partner and I are in a same-sex relationship and are separating. How will this affect getting a divorce or separation agreement in Nova Scotia?

My partner and I are in a same-sex relationship and are separating. How will this affect getting a divorce or separation agreement in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, same-sex couples have had the legal right to get married since 2005. Just like heterosexual marriages, some of these marriages will unfortunately break down. However, those in same sex relationship can be assured that they will be treated just like opposite-sex relationships by the legal system.

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My husband had an affair. Does this change the amount of support I can receive or the way we divide our property in Nova Scotia.

My husband had an affair. Does this change the amount of support I can receive or the way we divide our property in Nova Scotia.

In Nova Scotia, we have what we call “no fault” divorce. This means that we do not take into consideration the “why” of the breakdown of the marriage, at least when it comes to the financial aspects, such as spousal support or division of property. In short, in Nova Scotia you will not be entitled to more or less support or other property because your ex-spouse had an affair or was abusive.

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8 Tips to avoid common Nova Scotia “Do It Yourself” Will Kits mistakes

8 Tips to avoid common Nova Scotia “Do It Yourself” Will Kits mistakes

I can't count the number of times a friend or family of a deceased person came into our office with a “do it yourself” Will that couldn't be used because something was done wrong or missing. In theory, online “do it yourself” Will kits are supposed to save you money. Unfortunately, in many cases, issues with these Wills end up causing the person left trying to manage the estate significant time, stress, and money in legal fees to sort out the problem.

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The 411 on legal Cannabis use in Halifax, NS

The 411 on legal Cannabis use in Halifax, NS

As of October 17, 2018, the use of cannabis will be legal all across Canada. The rules for having and using cannabis are different in each province. Here are a few notable points for Nova Scotia, particularly when it comes to using it where you live…

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Halifax, NS Public Property is now officially a No Smoking zone.

Halifax, NS Public Property is now officially a No Smoking zone.

Halifax has rolled out some major changes to By-Law N-300, also known as the Nuissance By-Law. These changes are in the form of a city-wide smoking ban. The By-Law amendments, also known as the “Respecting Smoking” amendments are in effect as October 15, 2018.  They cover all smoking and vaping, including both tobacco and cannabis.

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