Family Law

H. Jane Robertson & Associates can assist with all family law issues, including:

Processes

The team at H. Jane Robertson & Associates have experience in a full range of family law processes, including negotiation, Collaborative Family Law, mediation, or court.

1. Negotiations are discussions, either in person or through correspondence, between the lawyers who are communicating on behalf of their clients. The goal of negotiation is to reach an agreement that can be turned into a legal Separation Agreement.

2. Collaborative Family Law is a process in which each party hires a specially trained lawyer. Family law issues are worked out through meetings where the couple and the two lawyers engage in direct, respectful negotiations. The goal of the Collaborative process is to negotiate a mutually acceptable settlement. The Collaborative process differs from traditional negotiation because the couple and the lawyers agree at the start of the process not to go to court. Collaborative Family Law is cooperative, not adversarial, so it is less stressful on the parents and better for the children. The process is less costly than going to court and is confidential. For more information about Collaborative Family Law visit: greybrucecollablaw.com and oclf.ca.

3. In mediation the separating couple meets with a neutral third party, called a mediator, who helps facilitate discussions in order for the couple to solve their legal problems. The mediator's role is not to make decisions for the couple, but to assist the couple in reaching an agreement. For more information about mediation, visit the Ontario Association for Family Mediation at: oafm.on.ca.

4. Individuals may start a Court Application if they cannot resolve their disputes using other options or when a court order is needed. Going to court means that a judge will make a decision if a settlement is not reached. Our firm can assist you in preparing for the numerous steps in the court process and advocating for you at the scheduled court appearances.