BC’s “Deadbeat Parents” Fail to Support Their kids

The child and spousal support system is in crisis. With two thirds of all support orders being ignored, deadbeat parents in BC owe over half a billion dollars in back support. Spousal support orders are supposed to be enforced by the Family Maintenance Enforcement Program (FMEP). But FMEP director Chris…

Can Family Mediation Work for Me?

Is Family Mediation right for you? This is an important question. Many people want to try family mediation because they fear going to court. This is understandable as court is expensive and time consuming. Is Family Mediation the answer? In most the answer is yes. The research shows that Mediation is successful…

Separation And Early Inheritance

When a relationship ends one issue that frequently needs to be addressed is how gifts and inheritances are dealt with.  Section 85(1) of the Family Law Act  makes the situation a lot simpler. This provision for gifts and inheritances (aside from capital gains) to be excluded from the family property which…

What Is “Equal Parenting” ?

On May 28, 2014, Bill C-560, referred to as the “equal parenting bill”,  was defeated at Parliament (174:80).  The Bill proposed to amend the Divorce Act in a way that would create a presumption for the courts to grant equal parenting time and responsibilities to each parent, with the opportunity…

Tenants Insurance: Why You Need It

With the recent fire at View Tower’s in Victoria, BC, many tenants are asking do they need insurance. The simple answer is yes. The first and foremost consideration for tenants is protection of personal property.  Landlords have limited legal obligations and are not responsible for damage to or loss of…