Laws Restricting the Marketing of Unhealthy Foods to Children are on the Horizon

Laws Restricting the Marketing of Unhealthy Foods to Children are on the Horizon

 As the father of a four-year-old who has always been a “good eater” I am lucky that I do not have many struggles with her eating unhealthy foods. But as she gets older and exposed to more advertising, her requests for the three Cs (cookies, candy, and cake) have started to get a little louder. As a parent, I am happy for any help I can get to try to combat the slick marketing directed at her to consume foods high in fat, salt, and sugar.

Health Canada has opened public consultations about restricting advertising of unhealthy foods to young people. The goal is to decrease strain on the health care system by helping children develop healthy food habits that will continue throughout their lives.

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Planning For Your Separation

Planning For Your Separation

Gwyneth Paltrow made headlines when she publicaly discussed her conscious uncoupling with Chris Martin. Whatever you may think of her, there is something to the idea of putting some planning and thought to your separation. Arriving at the decision to separate is hard, and it can be overwhelming to think about the changes coming your way. Planning will not make the experience painless but there are some steps you can take that can make this major life transition go more smoothly.

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Navigating the Unchartered Waters of Modern Families

Navigating the Unchartered Waters of Modern Families

 

A couple of recent news stories have highlighted the way that science, society, and the legal system are changing the definition of what it means to be a family. Just ask Natasha Bakht and Lynda Collins. Ms. Bakht and gave birth to her son, Elaan, seven years ago after using a sperm donor to get pregnant. From the moment Elaan was born, Ms. Collins was there for the family, eating meals, attending appointments, even joining them on holidays. Both women felt Ms. Collins had become a second momma to Elaan. But since they were not a romantic couple, it was not easy to for Ms. Collins to become Elaan’s adoptive parent.

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Breaking Up is Hard to Do....Don't Make it Harder Than it Has To Be

Breaking Up is Hard to Do....Don't Make it Harder Than it Has To Be

The old song “Breaking up is hard to do” accurately summarizes what is a nearly universal experience. Almost everyone has gone through a tough break up at one time or another.  And whether you are married or not, it can be a truly awful time. The last thing anyone needs in the middle of a break-up is to have the conflict made worse by uncertainty about custody arrangements and how to divide your property. During a break-up, emotions are often all over the place and it’s easy to make bad decisions that have a lasting impact.

If you are in a common-law relationship, a useful tool to consider is a cohabitation agreement. Think of it as a prenuptial agreement for non-married couples. A cohabitation agreement allows you to determine in advance how you would divide your property in the event of a break-up.

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When all is not Merry & Bright

When all is not Merry & Bright

There is a stereotype in our North American Society that everyone should be happy and joyous during the Holiday Season.  Unfortunately, this is often not the case for many people. The extra stresses during this time of year can often bring negative emotions to the forefront.  If you are feeling extra stressed or depressed during this holiday season; step back and ask yourself why.  Are the stresses coming from inside you, or are they external to you and beyond your control. The Public Health Agency of Canada has published a helpful article entitled Managing Holiday Stress http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/stress-eng.php which lists signs of depression and suggestions to cope with these holiday stresses.

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Highlander Law Group Expands to Offer Family Law Services

Highlander Law Group Expands to Offer Family Law Services

The firm has also recently expanded its service offering to include contested family matters.  It’s a sad reality that when relationships break down professional assistance is often beneficial in resolving the situation, particularly when children are involved.  Joseph Cuffari joined Highlander this summer to fill this need.  As a senior practitioner, he brings 35 years’ experience to the firm.  He also has experience in the areas of probate, real estate and corporate planning.  

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