No one enters a marriage or common law relationship thinking it will fail. But not every family that is formed will stay together forever. The consequences can be significant.

There are two main aspects to family law. The first is preventative: planning for the possibility of a breakup before a marriage or common law union even takes place. By recognizing and defining possible eventualities before they happen, much of the expensive and emotionally difficult aftermath of a relationship that has ended can be avoided. The second aspect of family law is dealing with a marriage that has failed. Children need to be raised and provided for. Family property and assets need to be divided. Wills need to be re-drawn. Financial support needs to be addressed. These decisions are not pleasant, but they are necessary.

There are different ways to resolve family disputes, from a “four-way meeting” among both spouses and their lawyers, to mediation and, if all else fails, court proceedings. Your lawyer should understand your situation, be knowledgeable about the options, and provide a sensible and effective solution to one of the most difficult situations you will ever face.

Cardinal Law’s Family Law practice includes:

• pre-nuptial agreements
• separations and divorce
• maintenance and support
• custody and access
• division of assets