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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Video Game Addictions lead to Separation & Divorce

Video Game Addictions lead to Separation & Divorce

A recent article highlighted the fact that in the UK, over 200 divorce petitions have referenced the popular video game Fortnite as one of the reasons for divorce. As silly as it sounds that people would get divorced over a video game, digital addictions are causing more and more problems.

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Who Keeps the Engagement Ring If You Split up Before Marriage in Nova Scotia?

Who Keeps the Engagement Ring If You Split up Before Marriage in Nova Scotia?

Not all relationships are meant to last. If a relationship is going to end, it is better for it to end before marriage than after. In cases where a couple is engaged and the wedding is called off, a practical concern can arise, what happens to the ring?

 

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Date of Separation – What does it mean for Nova Scotia couples?

Date of Separation – What does it mean for Nova Scotia couples?

In most cases, people can agree on the date of separation. When my clients ask me how to decide when they were separated I ask them when they stopped acting like a married couple. There is no one thing that marks a separation definitively (although one person moving out is usually a pretty good indication).

 

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How long does it take to get a Divorce in Nova Scotia?

How long does it take to get a Divorce in Nova Scotia?

Ask almost anyone who has been through it and they will say “too long!” Joking aside, it can feel like a long process, and the justice system is not exactly known for its speed, even at the best of times. The hardest part of a divorce is coming up with the terms of divorce, especially as it relates to custody, property division and support payments. This can be done through negotiation, or a judge can make the decision.  A negotiated settlement is almost always faster than waiting for the court to order the terms of your divorce. So, what exactly takes so long with court?

 

The hardest part of a divorce is coming up with the terms of divorce, especially as it relates to custody, property division and support payments. This can be done through negotiation, or a judge can make the decision.

 

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Myth-busting Child Support and Custody

Myth-busting Child Support and Custody

Almost everyone has been touched by divorce in some way, so it is not surprising that that so many well-meaning friends and family are eager to give out legal advice during a separation. Unfortunately, their advice is not always accurate or helpful. One commonly repeated myth is that if the parents share equal custody, then no one has to pay child support. 

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Making it worse – why you shouldn’t use social media to complain about your ex

Making it worse – why you shouldn’t use social media to complain about your ex

During a meeting last week, a senior family lawyer with over 25 years of experience told me that he tells clients involved in high conflict cases to delete all their social media accounts.  There can be a strong temptation to let the world know just how awful your ex is. This same senior lawyer also said, “people think if they post negative comments about their ex that everyone will agree and take their side.” It is a good idea not to post  anything to social media when you are upset. There is plenty of good research that says we do not make good decisions when we are emotionally charged, and once a post has been sent, there is no taking it back.

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How to Save Money during a Divorce

How to Save Money during a Divorce

Divorces and separations can be very expensive. During a separation, families may face new expenses for custody and access visits, outfitting a new apartment with furniture. Now add to that legal fees and court costs and it can be a very challenging time financially. Thankfully, there are some things you can do to reduce you expenses.

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