Family Law
Family Lawyers in Sarnia
Family law issues are deeply personal because they touch the heart of the relationships we live with every day. When legal actions are taken, the result will impact how you interact with friends, family members, and loved ones long after the case is resolved.
That’s why it’s imperative that you work with experienced family lawyers in Sarnia who use compassion and determination to resolve your case. At George, Murray, Shipley, Bell, LLP, our professional legal team resolve family law matters in your long-term best interests. We are proud to provide trusted and compassionate legal services to the families and residents of Sarnia-Lambton and surrounding areas.
Family Law Legal Services
GMSB’s expertise in the area of family law is extensive; our team of family lawyers can provide support and services for the following:
- Divorce Law
- Mediation
- Separation Agreements
- Marriage Contracts & Agreements
- Property Divisions
- Common Law Separation
- Guardianship Applications
Divorce & Separation Agreements
Filing for divorce or legal separation can be a tremendously stressful process. You entered a marriage with expectations about the future. What happens next with financial stability, children and other are issues seems unclear and that can be emotionally taxing. But the good news is that filing for divorce or separation is taking a significant step forward toward a more fruitful life.
Navigating the legal system can be challenging and the bureaucracy frustrating. As experienced divorce lawyers in Sarnia, we shepherd everyday people through divorce and legal separation. You deserve a positive and productive new life, and our firm will stand by you every step of the way.
Marriage Contracts & Agreements
It’s important for couples entering into a marriage to know that the union triggers certain legal rights and obligations. The same can hold true for people who decide to cohabitate in a marriage-like fashion. While Canadian law dictates certain legal aspects of these relationships, couples have an opportunity to create enhanced definition through contracts.
Marriage and Cohabitation agreements offer traditional and same-sex couples the ability to decide, in advance, how a variety of things would be distributed in the unfortunate breakdown of the union. It is in your best interest to agree on a Marriage or Cohabitation Agreement when entering a committed relationship. Not having one could result in expensive and protracted civil litigation.
Common Law Separation
When people decide to live together in a committed fashion, the relationship may be recognized as a common law marriage. If you have cohabitated for one year or longer, you and your partner could enjoy certain rights under the law. That means exiting the relationship without a common law separation agreement could open you up to a civil action. A well-crafted separation agreement will give you peace of mind knowing these issues have already been put to rest.
Child Support, Guardianship & Custody Access
Perhaps the most challenging part of dissolving a marriage is the care and welfare of minor children. There are financial guidelines in place based on the amount of time each parent enjoys physical custody and their income. But some variables need to be addressed such as special needs costs, tuition, medical expenses, and many others.
It’s also critical that quality parent-child time is negotiated fairly. It’s in the child’s best interest to have a fruitful relationship with loving parents and our experienced family lawyers are determined to get you the fair, equitable child custody and visitation agreement you deserve.
Contact an Experienced Sarnia Family Law Firm
If you are considering divorce, separation or are facing a family law issue, it’s critical to enlist an experienced firm that considers the long-term impact on you and your family members. At George, Murray, Shipley, Bell, LLP, we provide families with determined and compassionate representation. Contact our Sarnia family law office and schedule a consultation today.