The Family Law Act in Ontario provides for a default scheme for managing couples’ affairs. Many couples choose to manage their own affairs instead of the cookie cutter scheme and this Act provides guidelines for couples to have their own mutual agreements.

Many intelligent Ontarians have domestic contracts specifying mutual agreements that they agree to follow. There are different types of domestic contracts. You can decide to draft a marriage contract if you are married or about to be married; a cohabitation agreement if you live together but don’t intend to get married soon; or if you have separated and are living separate and apart, your spouse and you can agree to certain terms without involving the court system and have it executed under a separation agreement.

A Separation Agreement can take care of many things and unlike a marriage contract, it can deal with specific issues such as custody and access to your children. You can also decide how to divide your property in the agreement. Generally, property division should happen within 6 years from the date that you separate or 2 years from the date of divorce.

Marriage contracts can be entered into at any time after marriage. You and your spouse may agree on certain things such as division of assets upon a breakdown of relationship and you and your spouse can also waive you spousal support rights in that agreement.

I can help you navigate through your feelings and decide exactly what you want to include in your domestic contract. I am familiar with the different terms and agreements that are incorporated in such agreements and can help you decide which you would include or exclude in your agreement.

Call or email me today to see if I can help.

647-870 8388

Roshni@gopaullaw.ca