Paternity disputes often arise in maintenance proceedings because maintenance claims are based upon paternity. Liability needs to be established, via a paternity suit. Paternity disputes may be launched if the child’s paternity is in question. Unless the father or mother can prove otherwise, every child born from a marriage
When one thinks of abuse in a relationship, we typically focus on physical, emotional and verbal abuse. But financial abuse by a spouse or partner occurs in up to 99% of domestic violence cases. Financial abuse is a topic which is rarely spoken about. Because financial abuse is a
Parental responsibility is the responsibility to care for the child, to maintain contact with the child, to act as guardian of the child, and to contribute to the maintenance of the child. The Children’s Act sets out that a person may have full or specific parental responsibilities and rights.
Coercive control is described as a pattern of controlling behaviours that create an unequal power dynamic in a relationship. In some instances coercive control can escalate into physical abuse. However, even if it does not escalate into physical abuse, coercive control is a form of emotional abuse that can
A Protection Order is an order issued by a court ordering a person with whom one has or has had a domestic relationship (the respondent), to stop the abuse. It’s a legal document that specifies the conditions that an abuser must adhere to, as specified by the courts. The
The enforcement of maintenance payments is a highly problematic area. Often people liable to pay maintenance either refuse or simply neglect to fulfil their obligation. When one parent fails to comply with the terms of a maintenance order, and the order remains unsatisfied for a period of 10 days,
In order to enter into a valid engagement contract the requirements which first need to be met are the following: Both parties must be 18 years of age or older. Minors under the age of 18 will require their parents or guardians consent to marry, and in some instances
One of the most difficult, painful conversations you will ever face is talking to your kids about your plan to divorce. When you know that you will be separating or divorcing, it is important to talk to your kids before they hear it from someone else. Imagine how upsetting
Introducing a new partner to your children can be daunting: there are life-changing implications for all involved. The fallout from introducing your children too quickly to a new love interest can be disastrous. It can cause anguish for everyone, especially your children who may be holding onto the idea
Where a spouse lives in another country, a Plaintiff must first approach the Court by way of what is known in law as an Edictal Citation Application. If granted, this gives the Plaintiff permission to serve the divorce Summons on a spouse in a foreign country. Edictal Citation involves
