“Get real!” The authenticity of the parties in their communication with each other helps the collaborative process. When the parties are able to express their own rainbow of emotions/feelings and opinions/thoughts in a safe environment, each is better able to understand the issues and participate in reaching resolution. Just as in the realm of advocacy, where the authenticity of the … Read More

As a collaborative family lawyer, I have discovered that I am a gatekeeper. Usually one of the parties comes to me for summary advice early in the separation. We discuss the facts, the issues to be resolved, and the processes available for that resolution. Under the Family Law Act, there is an obligation upon lawyers to ensure that we have … Read More

provided by Patricia Lalonde During separation, this is a feeling that often arises. It comes from a strong desire to retain some sense of security and familiarity during a time of major upheaval. Does it make sense to keep the house? Does that spouse recognize the sacrifices they might need to make in order to keep the house? These are … Read More

provided by Patricia Lalonde Tax returns show Total Income and Taxable Income and Deductions to Business Income and Earned Income and Dividend Income and Pension Income etc. But nowhere does it say “Guideline Income.” How do you calculate “Guideline Income” for the purposes of Spousal and Child Support in the case of Separation? It’s complicated. Many Canadians now are self-employed … Read More