DURHAM REGION
FAMILY & DIVORCE LAWYERS
Experienced Durham Region Family Lawyers exclusively practicing family law.
Trials – Urgent Motions – Separation Agreements, Divorce, Spousal and Child Support, Parental Alienation.
Oshawa, Whitby, Pickering, Ajax, Uxbridge, Brock, Clarington,
Scugog, Bowmanville.
Our Durham Region family lawyers act fast to file urgent motions, protect assets in separation and divorce, and represent clients in high-stakes family law trials. Whether you need an emergency motion for parenting time, spousal support, or asset protection, our skilled legal team is ready to take immediate action. We specialize in separation agreements, pre-separation strategy, and complex property division, ensuring that your financial future is secured. With a results-driven approach, we aggressively advocate for our clients in high-conflict family law cases, including parental alienation, contested divorces, and business asset disputes.
Separation and divorce involve critical legal and financial decisions, and delays can impact your rights. Our Durham family lawyers provide clear, strategic legal advice to help you navigate complex issues like spousal support, child custody, and equalization of property. Whether you are preparing for anegotiated settlement or a trial, we develop a plan tailored to your unique case to ensure the best possible outcome.
Amanda Smith
Alyssa De Palma
Clarissa D’Avella
Lillian Bonakdar
SHANNON LEVINSON
KERA ANSTRUTHER
Nicole John
PERLA ESPINAL
ANGELA VALENCIA
heidy barsoum
Dara Khoeum
CELESTE VAN AMERIGEN
Elizabeth Cowan
Kyle Merinchuk
TERRA RANKIN
JENNIFER BURT
BROOK DUNPHY
LINDA COSTANTE
CARA VAUGHN
DOUGLAS GRANT
NATASHA SMITH
OUR APPROACHES
Separation Planning
Negotiations
Mediation & Arbitration
Court Litigation
Durham Family Lawyers Office Locations
133 Byron St N Suite 201, Whitby, ON L1N 4M8
285 Taunton Rd E., Oshawa ON L1G 3V2
SEPARATION AGREEMENTS
Separation Strategy.
Learn what assets belong to you, what you can claim, and how to protect yourself. Get insight into steps that you can take now to strengthen your case.
TRIAL
Skilled Trial Lawyers
When negotiations break down, we craft strong legal strategies supported by solid evidence and assertive advocacy.
PARENTAL ALIENTATION
Protecting Your Child
Facing false accusations, denied access, or a child refusing contact due to manipulation, we take decisive legal action.
URGENT MOTIONS
Immediate Legal Action.
Whether you’re facing domestic violence, child abduction, wrongful denial of parenting time, or financial hardship, we can act fast to file urgent motions.
MOTION TO CHANGE
Modify Court Orders.
Adjusting parenting time, child support, or spousal support, we build a compelling case to protect your rights.
GET A SECOND OPINION
Switching Representation
Facing delays, poor communication, or an approach that doesn’t align with your goals? Book a consultation with us.
Three flexible legal service options
Upgrade and downgrade as needed
Durham Family Law and Legal Resources
How do I file for divorce in Durham Region?
To start a divorce in Durham Region, you must complete Form 8A – Application (Divorce) and file it with the Oshawa Courthouse, which handles family law matters for Durham Region. The courthouse is located at: 150 Bond St E, Oshawa, ON L1G 0A2
Divorce application forms and instructions can be found on the Ontario Court Forms website:
https://www.ontariocourtforms.on.ca/en/family-law-rules-forms/
How does the court decide child custody and parenting time?
The court decides decision-making responsibility (custody) and parenting time (access) based on the best interests of the child. Factors considered include:
• The child’s emotional, physical, and developmental needs
• The stability and caregiving abilities of each parent
• The child’s relationship with each parent
• The history of parenting involvement
• Any concerns regarding domestic violence or safety
For more information, visit:
https://www.stepstojustice.ca
What happens if one parent wants to move with the child?
A parent planning to relocate with a child must notify the other parent at least 60 days in advance. If the other parent objects, the court will assess whether the move is in the child’s best interests.
For more details on relocation laws, visit:
https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca
How is property divided after separation?
Ontario follows the principle of equalization of net family property, meaning:
• Each spouse calculates their net worth at the time of marriage and separation
• The spouse with the higher net worth may owe an equalization payment to the other
Some assets, such as inheritances or gifts received during the marriage, may be excluded from equalization.
Is mediation available for family law cases in Durham Region?
Yes. Mediation services are available to help resolve disputes outside of court for issues like parenting time, child support, and property division. For more information, visit:
https://www.cleoconnect.ca
What are the benefits of mediation instead of court?
Mediation offers several advantages:
• It is generally faster and less expensive than litigation
• It allows parents to create cooperative parenting plans instead of relying on a judge’s decision
• It helps reduce conflict, especially in cases involving children
Where can I get help for domestic violence in Durham Region?
Several organizations provide support for individuals experiencing domestic violence:
Bethesda House (Serving Durham Region)
Crisis Line: 1-800-338-3397
Website: https://www.bethesdahouse.ca
Herizon House (Serving Durham Region)
Crisis Line: 1-866-437-4066
Website: https://www.herizonhouse.com
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How Are Pensions Divided in a Durham Region Divorce?
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Resolving a Family Cottage Dispute in Durham Region
For many families in Durham Region, a cottage is far more than a recreational property. A Family Cottage Dispute Durham Region families experience can involve significant financial and emotional issues, particularly as cottages reopen for the summer season across Ontario. Whether the cottage was purchased during the marriage, inherited from family members, or owned before…
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Ex Refuses to Leave the House in Durham Region? What You Can Do Under Ontario Family Law
Separation can become even more stressful when former spouses continue living under the same roof. If your ex refuses to leave the house in Durham Region, Ontario family law may provide options — but the answer depends on your circumstances, whether the home is jointly owned, rented, or held by one spouse alone. If your…
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Moving With Kids After Separation in Durham Region
Moving with kids in Durham Region after separation or divorce can become one of the most difficult family law issues parents face. Whether a parent wants to relocate within Ontario or move farther away for work, family support, housing, or a new relationship, the move can significantly affect parenting schedules and the child’s relationship with…
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Kids Skipping School in Durham Region: What Separated Parents Should Know
When kids are skipping school in Durham Region, it can quickly become more than a short-term issue. Whether a child is refusing to attend or a co-parent is allowing absences without properly addressing them, school attendance problems can escalate into legal and parenting conflicts. For separated or divorced parents, these situations raise serious concerns about…
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Who Pays for College After Divorce in Durham Region
If you are going through a separation or divorce in Durham Region, you may be wondering who pays for college after divorce in Durham Region and whether you are responsible for your child’s university or college education. While this is a common concern, the answer is not always straightforward. Ontario family law applies in Durham…