Canada: Family Law

The Ontario Court of Appeal issued several significant rulings during the week of June 8, 2026, addressing municipal licensing powers over short-term rentals, indigenous children's rights in child welfare systems, and the enforceability of domestic contracts in family law matters. These decisions clarify important legal principles regarding municipal jurisdiction, class action certification procedures, and the circumstances under which separation agreements can be set aside.

Canadian census data indicates that blended families are more common than ever, and their numbers are rapidly increasing. It is not unusual for individuals to marry more than once and/or have several common-law relationships.

When a loved one passes away, many family caregivers wonder if they can be compensated for the time and effort they devoted to providing care. Ontario courts have established that while compensation is possible, it is far from automatic and often smaller than families anticipate. Understanding what factors courts consider and why many claims fail can help caregivers protect their rights and set realistic expectations.

Over 10 intensive modules – spread out over 3 months – you will work closely with and receive personalized feedback from senior family law judges...

British Columbia courts apply a contextual, fact-driven analysis to determine whether unmarried couples qualify as spouses under the Family Law Act. This determination hinges on cohabitation for at least two years and whether the relationship functioned like a marriage, with significant implications for property division and spousal support claims upon separation.

The Supreme Court of Canada has recognized a groundbreaking new tort of intimate partner violence, providing victims with a direct legal remedy for coercive and controlling conduct within intimate relationships. This landmark decision addresses patterns of abuse including manipulation, isolation, financial control, and psychological violence that existing torts failed to adequately capture.

When a shareholder of a private corporation dies, investment advisers are often among the first professionals families turn to. Understanding the key concepts of dealing with an estate which owns...

When a loved one lives with a disability, estate planning involves much more than dividing assets. It focuses on ensuring long‑term financial security while preserving access to crucial government benefits.

Lorsqu'un proche vit avec un handicap, la planification successorale est loin de se limiter au partage des actifs. Elle consiste à assurer la sécurité financière à long terme de cette personne tout en protégeant...