Toronto Domestic Contracts Lawyers
Cohabitation agreements, separation agreements and marriage contracts are all domestic contracts that can assist in settling the various difficult issues that can arise upon the breakdown of a relationship or a family. It is important for couples wishing to enter into a domestic contract to have competent legal representation to ensure that they are fully aware of their rights and obligations prior to signing any such agreement. At RV Law we ensure that our clients’ interests are protected at all times.
Toronto Family Law Services Lawyers
Not only do we draft and negotiate domestic contracts on behalf of our clients, but we:
- Provide our clients with independent legal advice in respect of domestic contracts prepared by other lawyers or self-represented parties;
- Provide our clients with independent legal advice in respect of agreements reached by couples using alternative forms of dispute resolution, such as mediation services;
- Prepare parenting plans for domestic contracts and Applications to the court;
- Prepare Applications for uncontested divorces;
- Draft opinion letters regarding the recognition of foreign divorces; and
- Prepare travel consents for parents wishing to travel with their children.
The best time to enter into a marriage contract is well in advance of the marriage. Once the marriage happens, family law rights are immediately obtained by each spouse, and those rights can only be waived or limited by a contract signed by both spouses. If the marriage has taken place, and one of the spouses refuses to sign a marriage contract during the marriage, those rights will not be limited or waived.
Cohabitation agreements are effective for couples who have not yet decided to marry but are living together and want to ensure that, if the relationship breaks down, they have already determined how they will resolve certain issues, especially those pertaining to property. If a couple with a cohabitation agreement later decides to marry, the Family Law Act stipulates that the cohabitation agreement will be deemed to be a marriage contract.
Lastly, a separation agreement is entered into when a couple decides to separate and they wish to settle all issues stemming from the breakdown of their relationship or marriage as reasonably and amicably as possible. This type of agreement can resolve all issues, including parenting arrangements, child and spousal support, whereas there are certain limitations in dealing with such issues in cohabitation agreements and marriage contracts.
At RV Law, we can help draft and negotiate these domestic contracts in order to help you protect yourself down the line. These contracts are often effective alternatives to going to court and are normally faster, cheaper and more comprehensive in their approach to resolving issues. They also have the same enforceability as a court order.
Contact RV Law
For more information regarding domestic contracts and other family law services in Toronto, contact RV Law and schedule an initial consultation. Call our office toll free at 416-364-5200.