Frequently Asked Questions by Family Law Clients

If there are other issues such as child custody, access, financial issues, or property division, determining timelines and costs is more difficult.

The issues of cost and time sometimes go hand in hand. If a client says that he or she already agreed on certain issues already with his or her spouse or partner, whether verbally or in writing, then drafting a separation agreement can be dealt with more quickly. If the spouse’s or partner’s counsel is in agreement with the proposed terms then the process will move along smoothly and in a timely manner.

Sometimes the delay does not necessarily entail an extra legal fees; it could be a matter of the other side not quickly providing certain things that we need for settlement, such as financial disclosure. There may, for example, be some an issue where the payor for child support may be self-employed; it may take time to determine what the payor’s actual income is. He or she may not be disclosing certain information and uncovering that information could take a long time as well. However, if things drag out for a long period of time further letters may need to be written, which adds to the client legal fees.

If the parties are very acrimonious and there are, for example, issues of custody and access, the case could end up in court in litigation. Private assessments may need to be completed, which can be costly to both sides. Therefore, is difficult to advise a client at an initial meeting, how much their matter will cost and how long it will take to resolve.

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If you, or someone you care about, is dealing with a family law issue in York Region, Durham Region or Toronto, contact Feldstein Family Law Group for a consultation.