How separation actually unfolds in Canada
Separation is a fact, not a court order. The date of separation matters because it triggers limitation periods for property claims, fixes the valuation date, and starts the clock for child and spousal support. Most files in Ontario and across Canada resolve out of court via separation agreement, with each party receiving independent legal advice. Court is the option of last resort, not the default. A skilled family lawyer maps the financial and parenting picture early, builds a realistic plan, and only litigates issues that cannot be settled.
Parenting after separation
The Divorce Act and provincial family statutes now use the language of parenting time and decision-making rather than custody and access. The child's best interests are the only legal test. Parenting plans should be specific enough to prevent fights and flexible enough to evolve with children. Children's schedules, school holidays, transportation, communication during the other parent's time, mobility consents, and dispute resolution all belong in a well-drafted plan.
Child and spousal support, the actual numbers
Child support uses the Federal Child Support Guidelines, with the table amount based on the paying parent's line 15000 income and the number of children. Section 7 expenses cover daycare, post-secondary, medical, and major extracurriculars, shared proportionate to income. Spousal support, when payable, follows the SSAG, with ranges by length of relationship and presence of children. A lawyer reconciles support obligations with the realistic budget on both sides.
Property and equalisation
Ontario uses the Family Law Act equalisation regime. Each spouse calculates net family property as of valuation date minus debts and excluded property, the spouse with the higher NFP pays half the difference to the other. The matrimonial home is treated specially and is not deductible to the owner. Business interests, pensions, and inherited property require careful valuation. Quebec and the western provinces have different regimes. A family lawyer with provincial fluency is essential.
Costs and how family lawyers charge
Family lawyers typically charge hourly with an upfront retainer, refilled as needed. Hourly rates in Toronto and Vancouver commonly run $400 to $700 plus tax for senior counsel, $250 to $400 for junior. Mediation, collaborative practice, and limited-scope retainers can reduce cost. Many firms offer one-hour fixed-fee consultations.