Services
Same Sex Divorce Lawyer Ottawa
Legal matters involving same sex divorce can feel overwhelming—especially when they affect your family, finances, or future. At Walker Legal Professional Corporation, we focus on clear communication, personalized legal strategies, and practical guidance so you can make informed decisions with confidence. Our approach is straightforward, respectful, and centered on what matters most to you.
Speak With a Same Sex Divorce Lawyer in Ottawa
If you have questions about same sex divorce, contact Walker Legal Professional Corporation to speak with an Ottawa lawyer who provides clear advice, personalized strategies, and steady guidance throughout the process. We offer confidential consultations to review your situation and begin planning the next steps.
Our Process
Initial consultation – We listen to your story, assess your situation, and explain options under Ontario law, including how the Divorce Act and Family Law Act may apply.
Strategic Planning – We design a personalized legal strategy focused on your priorities—children, spousal support, property division, or urgent court orders.
Negotiation and Alternative Dispute Resolution – We pursue negotiated settlements, separation agreements, or mediation where possible to reduce cost and emotional strain.
Court Representation – When court is necessary, we prepare strong, focused applications or responses under the Divorce Act and represent you in the Ottawa area court system.
Ongoing Support – We assist with enforcement, variations to support or custody agreements, and follow-up legal assistance after final orders are made.
Our Services
Experienced Legal Counsel for Same Sex Divorce
Guidance under the Divorce Act and the Family Law Act for legally married couples
Spousal support advice and representation—negotiating, establishing, or defending support claims
Child support and custody agreement assistance—establishing, varying, or enforcing parenting time arrangements
Property division and division of property advice—identifying assets, claims, and fair division
Separation agreements and negotiation—drafting agreements tailored to your priorities
Contested divorce and litigation support—representation in court when negotiation or mediation isn’t possible
Mediation and collaborative law services to reduce cost, stress, and time
Advice for common law relationships and common law couples on rights, claims, and transition to separation
Why Choose Walker Legal Professional Corporation
At Walker Legal Professional Corporation, we pledge to provide the highest standards of professional legal services because we recognize how law affects real lives. We never treat clients as files—George Walker and our team take the time to understand your priorities, challenge obstacles, and guide you through every step. We deliver personalized, client-focused strategies that protect your legal rights, minimize stress, and pursue the best possible outcomes for you and your family. Our proven results in family law—whether mediation, negotiation, or court proceedings—mean you receive clear advice, steady support, and practical solutions from first consultation to resolution.
Service Areas
Ottawa area
Surrounding communities in Ontario
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What our clients are saying
Working with George was easy & fast. George was very responsive and kind. He offered valuable advice & expertise. It was easy to navigate his website & he was quick to respond to my inquiry. I would highly recommend working with George and his team.
Erin Fast
Walker legal was able to help me with my custody agreement. George was responsive and explained things well. Everything was completed within months of meeting George.
Matt B
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is same sex divorce under Ontario law?
What is same sex divorce under Ontario law?
Same sex divorce in Ontario follows the same divorce laws that apply to opposite sex couples. If you are legally married, you must apply for divorce under the Divorce Act, which governs the legal process for ending a marriage in Canada. Issues related to property division, spousal support, and child support are addressed under the Divorce Act and the Family Law Act. The law does not treat marriages differently based on sexual orientation—the same sex divorce laws apply equally to all married spouses.
Who qualifies for same sex divorce in Ottawa?
To start a same sex divorce in the Ottawa area, at least one spouse must meet the residency requirements, meaning they have lived in Ontario for at least one year before filing the divorce application. You must be legally married under Canadian law. Same sex partners in common law relationships or a marriage-like relationship are not eligible for divorce under the Divorce Act but may have claims under family law instead.
What are the main legal issues in a same sex divorce?
Key issues in a same sex divorce include spousal support, child support, child custody, parenting time, property division, division of debts, and separation agreements. For married couples, the Divorce Act governs divorce, while the Family Law Act applies to support and property matters. For common law couples, legal rights and claims differ significantly.
How does the Divorce Act affect spousal support and child support?
The Divorce Act sets the framework for establishing support, including spousal support and child support, for married spouses. Child support is determined using federal guidelines, while spousal support depends on factors such as length of marriage, roles during the relationship, income disparity, and ongoing need. Courts may issue court orders to enforce support obligations.
Do same sex couples face different legal treatment because of sexual orientation?
No. Same sex couples do not face different legal treatment due to sexual orientation. Same sex couples, same sex partners, and opposite sex couples are all subject to the same divorce laws under Ontario and Canadian law. The only distinction arises from whether the couple is legally married or in a common law relationship.
What if we were not legally married but lived together as a couple?
If you were not legally married but lived together as a same sex couple, you may be considered a common law couple. Common law couples do not have automatic rights to division of property, but they may claim support, unjust enrichment, or constructive trust. Legal advice is essential to understand your options under family law.
Do I need a lawyer for a same sex divorce in Ottawa?
While a simple divorce or joint divorce may proceed without a lawyer, legal counsel is strongly recommended when children, support, or property are involved. An experienced divorce lawyer provides legal assistance, protects your legal rights, negotiates separation agreements, and represents clients in court if the matter becomes a contested divorce.
How long does a same sex divorce usually take?
The timeline depends on complexity. An uncontested same sex divorce may be finalized shortly after the separation period and filing requirements are met. Disputes involving child custody, support, or property division can take months or longer depending on negotiation, litigation, and court scheduling.
What common mistakes should be avoided in same sex divorce?
Common mistakes include delaying legal advice, hiding assets, relying on informal agreements, misunderstanding support and property division, and signing separation agreements without legal review. These errors can lead to costly disputes and unfavorable outcomes.
Can support or separation agreements be changed later?
Yes. Separation agreements and court orders can be varied if there is a significant change in circumstances, such as income changes or altered parenting needs. Proper drafting helps clarify how and when changes may occur.
How much does a same sex divorce lawyer cost in Ottawa?
Legal fees vary based on whether the divorce is uncontested or requires litigation. Negotiation and mediation generally cost less than court proceedings. Our firm discusses fees during the initial consultation and focuses on efficient legal services tailored to clients’ needs.
What documents should I bring to a consultation?
Bring your marriage certificate, any draft separation agreement, financial records, property documents, and information related to children. These documents help assess claims for support, property, and parenting arrangements.
How does same sex divorce affect children, property, and finances?
For children, courts prioritize the child’s best interests when determining child custody and parenting time. Child support follows federal guidelines. Property division for married couples usually involves equalization, while common law relationships follow different rules. Financial outcomes depend on income, assets, and length of marriage.
What happens if both parties disagree on custody, support, or property?
When spouses cannot agree, options include negotiation, mediation, collaborative law, or court proceedings. If necessary, a judge may decide unresolved issues through formal litigation.
Is a separation agreement legally binding in Ontario?
A properly drafted separation agreement signed by both spouses is legally binding. However, courts may set aside agreements if there was fraud, misrepresentation, or serious unfairness—particularly in matters involving children.
What should I do before starting the divorce process?
How do I establish or vary spousal support or child support?
Support can be established through negotiation, separation agreements, or court applications. Child support is guideline-based, while spousal support depends on entitlement, amount, and duration under the Divorce Act and Family Law Act.
Do divorce laws apply differently to joint or simple divorce applications?
No. Divorce laws apply the same way to joint, simple, and contested divorces. A simple divorce proceeds faster because issues are resolved, but it still follows the Divorce Act requirements.
Will my status as a biological or legal parent affect custody or support?
Yes. Legal parentage—whether as a biological parent or recognized legal parent—can affect custody rights and child support obligations. Courts may issue orders to clarify parenting responsibilities.
Resolve Your Legal Challenges
By booking an appointment with our team, you take a concrete step toward resolving disputes, understanding your options, and safeguarding your future. We handle each case with precision and care, ensuring your unique situation is fully addressed. Don’t wait—secure your appointment today and move forward with confidence knowing experienced legal support is on your side.