Custody And Access Of Child
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]March 23, 2010 By Brad Smith Custody of a child is determined according to the best interests of the child. Factors considered in determining the best interests of a child include: the love, affection and emotional ties between the child and parent the age, views and preferences of the child the length of time the child […]
An Introduction To Family Law
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]March 17, 2010 By Brad Smith There are several issues that arise in family law, including spousal support, child support, possession, division, and equalization of property and custody and access of children. These do not arise just at the time of separation of spouses. These issues should be addressed several times in the life of you […]
Court Reform Features Increases To Limits Of The Small Claims Court And Simplified Rules
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]February 1, 2010 By Brad Smith Several important changes affecting the civil courts designed to increase access to justice, reduce delay and lower the costs of court proceedings came into effect on January 1, 2010. The changes make court proceedings more economical. Previously, a person may have not pursued a claim, or settled it unfavourably, because […]
Bill 168 – The Occupational Health And Safety Amendment Act
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]December 15, 2009 On December 15, 2009 Bill 168, the Occupational Health and Safety Amendment Act (Violence and Harassment in the Workplace) received Royal Assent. Bill 168 will be in effect on June 15, 2010. Bill 168 amends the Occupational Health and Safety Act to address workplace harassment and workplace violence (including a threat to exercise physical force). This […]
How Much Liability Insurance Do I Need?
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]October 30, 2009 By Brian Babcock The short answer is as much as you can afford. For most people, liability insurance comes in 2 or 3 forms – home, auto and possibly business. In each case, the liability coverage limit is the maximum amount the insurer will pay on your behalf if you accidentally injure someone, […]
What Is Personal Liability Insurance, Or Umbrella Coverage?
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]October 16, 2009 By Brian Babcock The Ontario Court of Appeal recently upheld a jury verdict which assessed damages at over $15 million dollars for a motor vehicle case. After contributory negligence, the judgment was $9.5 million. Most automobile policies provide coverage of $1 million, and often insurers will only offer a maximum of two million. […]
Tax Free Savings Accounts And Family Law
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]March 9, 2009 By Brad Smith Most people have likely heard of the Tax Free Savings Account or TFSA. They became available January 1, 2009. A Tax Free Savings Account allows you to deposit $5,000 per year and grow without paying taxes. The deposit is not tax deductible. But none of the money withdrawn from the […]
Post Separation Changes In Value
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]February 27, 2009 By Brad Smith When married spouses separate, the property settlement (known as an equalization payment in Ontario) is based upon two dates: the date of separation and date of marriage. If an asset is owned by only one spouse, this normally means the owner spouse has the benefit, or burden, of an increase […]
Landlords And Developers: Do Not Play Monopoly With Real Money
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]June 2, 2008 By Brian Babcock Developers and landlords must bear their own losses if they fail to secure a binding contract with a proposed tenant before commencing construction or renovations. Because prospective tenants often place a premium on early availability, and because rent usually does not start until the premises are usable, landlords often forge […]
The Children’s Fitness Tax Credit
[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]March 11, 2008 By Brad Smith The Children’s Fitness Tax Credit became effective January 1, 2007. A parent may earn a credit of up to $500 for each child under the age of 16 years. If you use the entire credit, this represents a tax saving of $75.00 per child. An eligible program must be: ongoing […]