What a Child Custody Lawyer Doesn’t Want You to Know
Insider Secrets Revealed
Navigating the turbulent waters of family law issues, particularly when it involves child custody, can be a daunting task. The stakes are high, emotions run deep, and the decisions made can significantly impact the lives of those involved, especially the children. This is where a Child Custody Lawyer steps in, providing legal guidance and support during these challenging times.
However, what if there’s more to the story than meets the eye? What if there are insider secrets that your Child Custody Lawyer doesn’t want you to know? This journey takes us beyond the typical access schedules, joint or sole custody arrangements, and child support considerations. It delves into the heart of family law, challenging the conventional wisdom and revealing a new perspective on child custody.
Whether you’re a parent who primarily cares for your child, a non-custodial parent seeking access, or parents trying to share responsibilities, the landscape of child custody is complex. It’s not just about where the child lives or who makes the major decisions. It’s about the child’s care, the time children spend with each parent, and the important decisions that shape their lives.
In the Ontario court system, these matters are often handled by family law lawyers. But is there a smarter, less conflict-ridden way to navigate these issues? Can two people, despite their differences, come together to make decisions that are in the best interests of their child or children?
Welcome to a new perspective on child custody, one that challenges the status quo and reveals the insider secrets that your Child Custody Lawyer might not want you to know. Let’s embark on this journey together, exploring a smarter way to navigate the complexities of child custody and family law.
As we delve deeper into the world of child custody and family law, we begin to understand that it’s not just about legal battles and courtroom dramas. It’s about real people, real families, and real emotions. It’s about parents who want what’s best for their children, even if they no longer want to be together. It’s about children who need love, stability, and care from both parents, regardless of their parents’ relationship status.
The traditional approach to child custody often involves terms like “sole custody,” “joint custody,” “non-custodial parent,” and “access parent.” These terms, while legally accurate, can sometimes create a sense of division and conflict. They can imply a winner-loser scenario, which is not conducive to the cooperative co-parenting that children need.
Instead, we need to shift our focus towards more cooperative and child-centered terms. For instance, instead of “custody,” we can talk about “parenting time” or “parenting responsibilities.” Instead of “access,” we can talk about “parenting schedule” or “time-sharing.” These terms emphasize the ongoing involvement of both parents in the child’s life and the shared responsibility for the child’s care.
Moreover, we need to rethink the role of family law lawyers. Instead of just representing one parent against the other, they can serve as mediators and facilitators, helping parents navigate the complexities of co-parenting in a cooperative and respectful manner. They can help parents create separation agreements that provide clarity and secure futures for their children, without the overwhelming conflicts, confusion, and costs often associated with traditional divorce and custody proceedings.
The world of child custody and family law is complex and challenging. But with the right approach and the right guidance, it’s possible to navigate this journey in a way that respects the rights and needs of all parties involved, especially the children. Let’s continue to explore this new perspective on child custody, revealing the insider secrets and challenging the status quo. Together, we can find a smarter, more compassionate way to handle child custody and family law issues.
52% of Families Settle Parenting Agreements Without Court Orders
Starting a family and having children can bring immense joy to a relationship. However, not all unions have a happy ending. Child custody becomes one of the many challenges that must be addressed when a relationship or marriage ends. This battle can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Even in amicable separations, determining the sharing of time, responsibilities, and financial obligations for the children can lead to new conflicts.
From 1991 to 2011, approximately 5 million Canadians went through separation or divorce, and 38% of these individuals had children together at the time of their separation or divorce. These statistics indicate that child custody battles have been commonplace, even in the past.
However, it is noteworthy that many families can settle their parenting agreements without court intervention. 52% of Canadians have opted for this approach, where they reach written arrangements through the assistance of professionals without requiring a court order for child custody. This demonstrates that many families can find mutually satisfactory solutions outside the legal system.
Common-law couples
In Canada, many individuals start families and have children without getting married. Does marriage affect the frequency of court orders obtained for child custody? According to the Department of Justice’s Selected Statistics on Canadian Families and Family Law, 48% of parents going through separation or divorce have applied for a court order or are obtaining one. On the other hand, 52% of those surveyed settled their child custody through written or verbal agreements without involving the court.
Breaking down the statistics based on types of unions, approximately 40% of common-law couples obtained court orders for child custody, while the remaining 60% opted to settle outside of court. Among married couples who were previously living together before marriage, as well as those who married without living together, more than 50% obtained court orders for child custody. This indicates that the decision to involve the court can vary depending on the specific circumstances.
Additionally, the time since separation also influences the application of court orders for child custody. Recent separations within one year often result in out-of-court settlements, with only 27% of surveyed individuals obtaining or in the process of obtaining a court order for custody. As time passes, the number of custody applications filed with the court increases, with 59% of surveyed individuals applying for court orders five years after the relationship ended.
No presumption of equal parenting
Canadian law does not start with a presumption that there will be equal parenting time or any other specific parenting schedule. Instead, both research and Canadian law support the creation of individualized plans for children based on their unique needs and the parent’s circumstances. This approach avoids presuming that a particular plan, such as one based on equal parenting time, is suitable for every child.
Using plans based on roughly equal parenting time is increasingly common in Canada, and some children benefit from such arrangements. However, it is essential to note that other children may find these equal parenting time schedules disruptive or uncomfortable. Additionally, continuous exposure to parental conflict, which such arrangements may intensify, can profoundly affect some children. Therefore, equal parenting time is rarely appropriate under the following circumstances:
- There is a high level of parental conflict, or the parents have poor communication.
- The parents do not live close to each other.
- The parents were not significantly and actively involved in the children’s care before implementing the plan.
- The children are of preschool age and primarily attached to one parent.
- The children are older and do not support this arrangement.
Furthermore, regardless of the initial plan, children’s needs and the parent’s circumstances change as children grow older. Therefore, plans for their care generally need to be modified to remain developmentally appropriate. In some cases, it may be suitable for children to spend most of their time with one parent, with the plan gradually evolving towards equal parenting time.
The following discussion provides suggestions for plans and parenting schedules that may suit children of different ages. It emphasizes the factors that parents should consider for children of various ages. However, it is essential to recognize that each child and parenting situation is unique. Each plan will be imperfect for parents and their children, and compromises and trade-offs are inevitable when creating a parenting plan.
Generally, parents, often with professional consultation, have a good understanding of their children and can work together to decide on a plan that meets their children’s needs and is realistically achievable. If parents cannot agree, a mediator may assist them in creating a workable schedule. Alternatively, an arbitrator or judge may intervene to resolve the issues necessary for establishing a parenting plan.
Understanding How Child Arrangements are Made
If you are currently going through a divorce or separation, you might wonder how child custody decisions are made and whether gender plays a role in these determinations. It is essential to understand the process and the available options.
The Department of Justice in Canada outlines three primary methods for reaching child custody decisions. The most common approach, chosen by 52% of Canadians, involves formulating written agreements with the help of legal professionals or family lawyers, specifying the child’s primary residence. Another method, selected by 32% of Canadians, is a verbal agreement where the parents communicate their decisions directly. While this approach can work, it may take time to track and implement correctly, leading to potential conflicts.
Opting for written arrangements within separation agreements is generally advisable, as they provide physical evidence of the decisions made. This documentation is easier to manage and can help prevent further issues. Having a lawyer draft the agreement can also help mitigate potential conflicts that may arise in the future.
In cases where parents cannot reach an agreement, the court steps in to determine custody and access arrangements. Approximately 9% of Canadians find themselves in this situation, where the court considers the best interests of the child or children involved, as outlined in the Divorce Act.
Custody arrangements typically involve two aspects: living arrangements and decision-making authority. The court decides where the child will primarily reside and with which parent while also granting decision-making power to one or both parents in areas such as health, education, and religion.
Additionally, access orders can be granted to the non-residential parent, allowing for parenting time even if the child does not primarily reside with them. These court orders may specify the duration, frequency, and conditions of the access and can vary from supervised visitation to liberal/reasonable arrangements. It’s also worth noting that grandparents and non-family members may apply for access to the children.
Family Court and Best Interest of the Child
Determining the best interest of a child in separation and divorce cases can often be a complex and nebulous process. It involves various factors and considerations that can be difficult to ascertain definitively. In such situations, outside expert testimony, involvement of the Office of the Children’s Lawyer, and decisions made by judges can play significant roles.
Due to the subjective nature of determining a child’s best interest, it is not always straightforward or easily quantifiable. Different perspectives, opinions, and circumstances can influence the outcome, making it a challenging task. As a result, outside experts, such as psychologists, social workers, or child welfare professionals, may be called upon to provide their insights and evaluations. Their testimony can shed light on the child’s emotional well-being, relationship with each parent, and overall welfare, helping the court make informed decisions.
Additionally, the Office of the Children’s Lawyer (OCL) may be involved in some cases. The OCL acts as a voice for the child during legal proceedings, representing their interests and advocating for their well-being. They conduct interviews, gather information, and provide recommendations to assist the court in understanding the child’s perspective and needs.
Ultimately, judges play a vital role in making decisions regarding the best interest of the child. They consider the evidence presented, including expert testimonies, reports from the OCL, and the arguments made by the parents and their respective legal representatives. Judges apply their knowledge of family law and their understanding of the unique circumstances to make rulings that they believe will serve the child’s best interests.
However, due to the complexity and subjectivity of the matter, there may be instances where the determination of the child’s best interest remains uncertain or debatable. The involvement of various stakeholders and the reliance on expert testimonies and judicial decisions aim to mitigate this ambiguity and ensure that the child’s well-being is given due consideration in separation and divorce cases.
In summary, relying on the courts to determine the best interests of a child in separation and divorce cases can often lead to a costly and contentious process. The subjective nature of the determination, combined with the involvement of outside experts, the Office of the Children’s Lawyer, and judges, can create winners and losers, fostering long-term anger and resentment.
Empowering and supporting parents in making their own decisions is crucial.
The complexity and nebulous nature of determining a child’s best interest make it challenging for any external party to comprehend the unique dynamics and intricacies involved fully. The reliance on expert testimonies and judicial decisions may only sometimes provide the optimal outcome, as personal biases and limitations can influence the results.
To address this, it is essential to focus on empowering parents, providing them with the necessary resources, guidance, and support to make informed decisions in the best interests of their children. Parents can work together to create a nurturing and stable environment for their children by encouraging open communication, mediation, and co-parenting strategies.
Furthermore, comprehensive education programs and accessible resources can equip parents with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of separation and divorce while prioritizing the well-being of their children. Encouraging parents to find mutually beneficial solutions outside the courtroom can lead to more positive outcomes, fostering cooperation and minimizing the adversarial nature of legal battles.
By shifting the focus from a courtroom-driven approach to one that promotes parental empowerment and collaboration, we can strive to create healthier and more sustainable resolutions for families experiencing separation and divorce. Ultimately, the well-being and happiness of the children should be at the forefront of these decisions, and empowering parents to make their own choices can contribute to a more harmonious and child-centred approach.
Different Types of Child Custody Arrangements
Given the unique nature of each family, child custody arrangements can vary widely. However, most agreements fall into the following categories:
Sole Custody:
In this arrangement, the child lives primarily with one parent being solely responsible for the care and upbringing of the children. All decisions regarding the children are made by this parent, even if the other parent disagrees.
Split Custody:
This arrangement involves dividing the children between both parents. Some children live with one parent, while others live with the other.
Joint Custody:
In cases where the court grants joint custody, parents share custodial rights and are involved in making decisions regarding their children. This arrangement requires effective communication and cooperation between the parents for its success.
Shared Custody:
This type of custody is applicable when parents share custody, and one parent spends at least 40% or more of their time with the children. It signifies a more balanced sharing of parenting responsibilities.
It’s important to note that the court-mandated custody arrangement determines whether the children will primarily live with one parent or split their time between both parents. It’s also crucial to distinguish between custody and access arrangements. Access refers to the non-residential parent’s right to spend time with the children, and it can vary based on the parent’s ability to work together. In cases where one parent has a history of abuse or neglect, the court may restrict their access to the children.
How often do fathers get 50 50 custody in Ontario?
It’s important to note that the statistics used in this report are based on surveys recorded by the court, as most child custody cases are settled outside of court. Further studies are needed to determine the actual child custody statistics by gender in Canada.
According to the Department of Justice report, in cases where a court order existed, 79.3% of children under the age of 12 were placed under the exclusive custody of the mother. In comparison, only 6.6% of fathers had sole custody. Shared physical custody, where both parents share custodial rights, was granted in 12.8% of the cases.
These percentages vary depending on the age of the children at the time of divorce or separation. Surprisingly, older children are more likely to be placed under the exclusive custody of their father or in joint custody arrangements. For children between the ages of 6 and 11, 8% are placed under the complete care of the father, and 16% are in joint custody with both parents.
Among children aged six and below, only 18 percent of them are exclusively entrusted to the father or in joint care. In broken common-law unions, most children, around 84%, remain under the mother’s care.
It is evident that when it comes to winning child custody, mothers have a higher success rate than fathers. One of the contributing factors is the traditional perception that women are the primary caregivers, particularly during the formative years of the children. Consequently, the care of younger children is often awarded to mothers. However, it’s important to note that this is only sometimes the case.
How can a mother lose custody of her child Ontario?
While most custodial parents are mothers, recent statistics indicate an increased number of custodial fathers, whether through exclusive or joint custody arrangements. In 2017, 63% of divorced and separated parents reported having joint custody of their children. This percentage is much higher than the previous report released by the Department of Justice.
So, how can fathers increase their chances of winning a custody battle?
While it is no longer uncommon for fathers to succeed in custody battles, the final decision still rests with the judge. Factors that can positively influence the outcome include:
- Maintaining a healthy relationship with the child.
- Demonstrating a history of responsible parenting.
- Having a stable full-time job.
- Other considerations show the father’s commitment and ability to care for the child.
Parents also have the opportunity to contest the court order’s outcome if they believe it is not in the child’s best interest. A Canadian Department of Justice report states that less than 4% of divorces are finalized through a contested hearing. In these cases, where there is a counter-petition or trial, 75% of children are awarded solely to the mother, while only 8% are granted sole custody to the father.
It’s essential to remember that each custody battle is unique, and outcomes can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the judge’s discretion. Seeking legal advice and presenting a solid case prioritizing the child’s well-being will increase the chances of a favourable custody arrangement.
Last Words
The language used in the realm of Family Law, particularly concerning divorce and child custody issues, profoundly impacts the perception and experience of the involved parties. Terms such as “custody,” “access,” and “non-custodial parent,” among others, can inadvertently fuel conflict, imply ownership over children, and create a sense of winners and losers. This is not conducive to the child’s best interests, which should always be the paramount consideration in any family law matter.
The need for legal reform in this area is evident. The “divorce industrial complex,” sometimes referred to, must evolve to serve families in transition better. This includes changing the fundamental language used in the system.
For instance, replacing “custody” with terms like “parenting time” or “parenting responsibilities” can shift the focus from ownership to responsibility. Similarly, replacing “access” with “parenting schedule” or “time-sharing” can emphasize the shared commitment and ongoing involvement of both parents in the child’s life.
Moreover, the role of family law lawyers needs to shift from adversarial representation to more of a mediation and facilitation role to help parents navigate the complexities of separation and co-parenting in a cooperative and child-focused manner. This approach can help reduce the overwhelming conflicts, confusion, and costs often associated with traditional divorce and custody proceedings.
In essence, the language and approach of the family law system need to reflect the realities and needs of modern families. Doing so can create a more respectful, cooperative, and child-centred legal environment that better supports families during challenging times. This is not just a matter of semantics; it’s about making fundamental, substantive changes that can positively impact the lives of parents and children alike.
It’s important to note that these proposed changes are about more than just making the process less stressful for the parents involved. They are about ensuring the well-being of the children at the heart of these cases. Children are not mere subjects of “custody arrangements” or “access issues.” They are individuals with their own needs, rights, and feelings. The language we use should reflect this.
For instance, instead of saying, “The child lives primarily with one parent,” we could say, “The child spends significant parenting time with both parents but stays more often with one.” This subtle language shift acknowledges both parents’ ongoing involvement in the child’s life, even if the child spends more time with one parent.
Similarly, instead of “major decisions” being made by one or both parents, we could talk about “important decisions” being made in the “best interests of the child.” This emphasizes that the child’s welfare is the primary consideration, rather than the parents’ desires or convenience.
The Ontario court system, like many others, is already moving in this direction. The recent changes to the Divorce Act, for instance, replace the terms “custody” and “access” with “parenting orders” and “parenting time.” This is a positive step, but there’s still a long way to go.
In conclusion, the language of family law needs to evolve to serve the needs of families and children better. This involves changing words and attitudes, practices, and systems. It’s about recognizing that when two people decide to separate, it’s not just a legal issue but a deeply personal and emotional one. Adopting a more respectful and child-centred language can help make this complex process easier for everyone involved.
Government of Canada. “Selected Statistics on Canadian Families and Family Law.” Department of Justice, 2000. Accessed on June 18 2023. Available at: Tap Here.
A New Era of Child Custody Dispute Resolution
Words like Custody and Access needed to eliminated
Language plays a crucial role in shaping our perceptions and interactions. In Family Law, the terminology used can significantly impact how parents perceive their roles and responsibilities post-separation or divorce. Some traditional terms, such as “custody” and “access,” have been criticized for their potentially disrespectful and conflict-inducing connotations.
For instance, the term “custody” can imply ownership, which is inappropriate when applied to children. Parents do not “own” their children; they have responsibilities toward them. This term can also create a power dynamic, suggesting a winner-loser scenario, fueling conflict and animosity between parents. Similarly, labels like “non-custodial parent” and “access parent” can be demeaning and marginalizing, implying that one parent is less critical or involved in the child’s life.
Terms like “joint custody,” “split custody,” “sole custody,” and “shared custody” can also be problematic. They can suggest dividing or splitting the child rather than focusing on the continuity of care and the child’s best interests.
A language shift was needed to promote respect, cooperation, and child-centred decision-making. Instead of “custody,” terms like “parenting time” or “decision-making responsibilities” have been introduced. These terms focus on the parent’s role and time with the child rather than implying ownership.
Instead of “access,” we can use “parenting schedule” or “time-sharing,” which emphasizes the shared responsibility and ongoing involvement of both parents in the child’s life.
Reforms: The Divorce Act
The Divorce Act of Canada underwent revisions in 2020 concerning parenting arrangements. The amendments aimed to prioritize the child’s best interests and promote a more child-centred approach to parenting after separation or divorce. Here are the fundamental changes introduced:
Focus on the Best Interests of the Child: The revised Divorce Act emphasizes that the best interests of the child should be the primary consideration in all parenting decisions. This principle guides the court in determining custody, access, and decision-making authority.
Parenting Terminology: The new legislation replaces terms like “custody” and “access” with more child-centric language. The words “custody” and “access” are replaced by “parenting orders” and “parenting time,” respectively, to promote a cooperative parenting framework.
Parenting Plans: The amendments encourage the development of parenting plans that outline the responsibilities and arrangements for the child’s care. Parenting plans can address the child’s residence, visitation schedules, decision-making authority, and communication between parents.
Consideration of Family Violence: The revised Divorce Act emphasizes the impact of family violence on parenting arrangements. It requires the court to consider any history of family violence and its potential effect on the safety and well-being of the child and the parent.
Mobility: The amendments introduce guidelines for cases involving relocation or mobility of the child. If a parent wishes to relocate with the child, they must provide notice to the other parent and demonstrate how the move would be in the child’s best interests.
Factors in Decision-Making: The updated legislation provides a non-exhaustive list of factors to consider when making decisions about the child’s upbringing, including the child’s needs, the child’s relationships with each parent, and the willingness of each parent to facilitate the child’s relationship with the other parent.
Dispute Resolution: The revised Divorce Act promotes alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation and collaborative law, to encourage parents to collaborate to develop parenting arrangements outside of court. It aims to reduce adversarial litigation and encourage cooperative decision-making.
In conclusion, the language of Family Law needed to evolve to reflect a more respectful, cooperative, and child-focused approach. By changing our words, we can change our mindset, reduce conflict, and better support families during challenging times.
Joint Decision-Making:
Joint decision-making responsibility is where both parents retain full decision-making authority and responsibility in all areas concerning the child. This arrangement ensures that both parents remain involved in making decisions about their children, fostering a cooperative and collaborative approach to parenting post-separation or divorce.
It’s important to note that joint decision-making responsibility is distinct from parenting time, which refers to the time a child spends with each parent. A joint decision-making arrangement can exist even if the child spends more time with one parent than the other.
Sole Decision-Making:
When a parent has sole decision-making responsibility, they are solely authorized to make major decisions for the child, to the exclusion of the other parent. These decisions could include those related to the child’s health, education, and overall well-being.
It’s important to note that the parent with sole decision-making responsibility doesn’t need to involve the other parent when making these decisions, unless the agreement or court order specifies otherwise.
Also important to note that sole decision-making responsibility is distinct from parenting time, which refers to the time a child spends with each parent. A sole decision-making arrangement can exist even if the child spends equal time with the other parent.
Parenting Time:
Parenting Time” refers to the time a parent spends with their child. During this time, the parent is responsible for the care, supervision, upbringing, and decision-making for the child.
The concept of Parenting Time is part of a broader framework known as a parenting plan, which is a written agreement between parents outlining how they will raise and care for their children after separation or divorce. The parenting plan typically includes details about where the children will live, how decisions about the children will be made, and how much time the children will spend with each parent.
The Parenting Plan Guide by AFCC-O Task Force
The AFCC-O Task Force was appointed to develop the Parenting Plan Guide and Parenting Plan Template to assist parents, lawyers, mediators, and judges in creating child-focused and practical parenting plans. These materials underwent a comprehensive review process involving input from numerous AFCC-O members.
Initially released in January 2020, these materials have since been utilized by lawyers and mediators to aid their clients in formulating parenting plans. Judges have also cited them as a valuable source of information for parents and the courts. For instance, in cases listed below the materials were deemed “very helpful.”
The AFCC-O Task Force Work Continues
Considering the amendments to the Children’s Law Reform Act and Divorce Act that became effective on March 1, 2021, and taking into account feedback received about the 2020 version, the AFCC-O Board decided to revise the materials. However, the fundamental themes and approach remain consistent with the 2020 materials.
The Guide and Template result from a collaborative effort among numerous AFCC-Ontario members and other professionals. They integrate insights from developmental research on the impact of parental separation and divorce on children, combined with a practical understanding of the needs of children with parents living apart. The materials draw significantly from resources provided by Justice Canada.
The statements in these materials that summarize social science research represent the well-considered viewpoints of the Task Force Members. As with similar resources, the Guide must provide an exhaustive discussion of all addressed issues and include citations. Interested readers are encouraged to consult the extensive published literature on child development and post-separation parenting in peer-reviewed social science journals.
The AFCC-O acknowledges with gratitude the financial support provided by the Law Foundation of Ontario for developing these materials.
Professional help in preparing your parenting agreement
Several professionals are available to assist separating parents in preparing a parenting agreement. Here are some standard options:
Family Lawyers: Family lawyers specialize in family law matters, including child agreements. They can provide legal advice, guide parents through the process, and draft legally binding parenting agreements that reflect the children’s best interests.
Mediators: Mediators are neutral third parties who help facilitate communication and negotiation between parents. They assist in identifying common ground, exploring options, and reaching mutually acceptable agreements. Mediators do not provide legal advice but focus on promoting cooperative decision-making.
Parenting Coordinators: Parenting coordinators are professionals trained in conflict resolution and child development. They work with separating parents to develop parenting plans and assist in resolving disputes that may arise post-separation. Parenting coordinators can provide ongoing support and help parents navigate co-parenting challenges.
Collaborative Law Professionals: Collaborative lawyers, mental health professionals, and financial specialists work together to help parents reach an agreement. They promote a cooperative and non-adversarial approach, focusing on open communication and finding mutually beneficial solutions.
Family Counsellors or Therapists: Family counsellors or therapists can provide emotional support and guidance to parents during the separation process. They can help parents navigate emotional challenges and facilitate healthy communication, essential for developing a parenting agreement.
In conclusion, navigating the complexities of separation and co-parenting can be a challenging journey. However, it is not a path that you have to walk alone. Numerous professionals, such as family lawyers, mediators, parenting coordinators, collaborative law professionals, and family counsellors or therapists, can provide invaluable assistance. They can guide you through the process, help you negotiate and communicate effectively, and assist in drafting a parenting agreement that prioritizes your children’s best interests.
However, ensuring that these professionals have integrated the best practices outlined in the AFCC-O Parenting Plan Guide is crucial. This guide provides a comprehensive framework for creating a parenting plan that is fair, realistic, and child-focused. By adhering to these best practices, you can transition from disappointed spouses to supportive co-parents, keeping your family’s welfare at the forefront and potentially avoiding the stress and conflict of family court.
Remember, the goal is to separate amicably and build a strong foundation for co-parenting that supports your children’s growth and well-being. You can achieve this objective with the right professional help and adherence to proven guidelines.
Conclusion
Ensure your child’s care is in the right hands. Avoid the confusion and conflicts created by traditional legal processes. Let’s navigate your child custody matters together with clarity and compassion. Don’t hesitate to schedule a Get Acquainted Call today, and let’s start building a secure future for your child.
By choosing mediation, you’re choosing a path of understanding and cooperation. It’s about making agreements and creating a harmonious environment for your child’s growth and development. Our approach is designed to minimize conflicts and maximize mutual respect.
Remember, every step you take is for your child’s well-being. Let’s ensure their future is not overshadowed by legal battles but illuminated by shared decisions and mutual understanding.
Take the first step towards a more thoughtful, more compassionate approach to child custody. Schedule your Get Acquainted Call now. Let’s discuss your concerns, answer your questions, and start planning for a brighter future. “Your child deserves nothing less.”
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Ken Maynard ADFA, Acc.FM
I assist intelligent and successful couples in crafting clear and straightforward separation agreements, ensuring a smooth transition towards a secure future. This is achieved in four meetings or less, sidestepping the excessive conflicts, confusion, and costs often associated with legal proceedings. You have the option to collaborate with me via video conference or in-person with a DTSW associate at any of our six Greater Toronto mediation centers, located in Aurora, Barrie, North York, Vaughan, Mississauga, and Scarborough.
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Ken Maynard ADFA, Acc.FMhttps://divorcethesmartway.ca/author/wardman/May 23, 2023
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Ken Maynard ADFA, Acc.FMhttps://divorcethesmartway.ca/author/wardman/June 2, 2022
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Ken Maynard ADFA, Acc.FMhttps://divorcethesmartway.ca/author/wardman/May 20, 2022
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Ken Maynard ADFA, Acc.FMhttps://divorcethesmartway.ca/author/wardman/June 1, 2023