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Should I Revisit My Separation/Divorce Agreement?

Dorcus Srivaram • Jan 08, 2024

Separation and divorce are tough decisions to make, but sometimes they are necessary for personal growth and happiness. The agreement between the parties is a crucial part of any separation or divorce. This agreement outlines the division of assets, the arrangements for child custody, and the determination of spousal support. But, what happens when circumstances change, and you start to question whether the agreement you came to is still fair? 


However, as life goes on, circumstances may change, making it necessary to revisit your separation/divorce agreement. In this blog post, we will explore whether revisiting your separation/divorce agreement is a good idea.

a divorce agreement is sitting on a wooden table next to a pen .

5 Reason why you Should Revisit your Separation/Divorce Agreement:


Changes in Financial Circumstances

One of the most common reasons for revisiting a separation/divorce agreement is a significant change in financial circumstances. For example, you or your ex-spouse may have lost their job, had a significant reduction in their income, or received a big promotion. These changes can have a significant impact on the amount of money you pay or receive for spousal and child support. Therefore, you may need to make adjustments to your agreement. 


A revision can help ensure a more equitable division of assets and liabilities. It can also address any changes in financial responsibilities, such as a child's education or medical expenses. Reviewing your agreement ensures that both parties receive fair and suitable support based on their new finances. It is important to regularly review the agreement to ensure fairness and suitability for both parties. This helps to maintain a balanced and equitable arrangement.


Relocation


If you or your ex want to move, you may need to look at your separation/divorce agreement again. This is particularly important if you have children, as relocation can impact custody arrangements and visitation schedules. The agreement should explain how to handle moving, like getting permission or going to court.


It is essential to have a plan in place that works for everyone involved. When considering a move, it is important to think about several factors. This includes the distance of the move and how to travel to see family. Additionally, one must consider how the move might impact the children's schooling and daily routines. It may also be helpful to discuss any concerns or disputes with a mediator or lawyer.



Changes in Your Children's Needs


As your children grow and their needs change, their custody arrangements may also need to be revisited. For example, if your child has started playing a sport that requires several hours of practice a day, it may be necessary to adjust your visitation schedule to accommodate this.


Additionally, it may be necessary to adjust child support payments if your child's needs have changed. Remember to talk openly with your child's other parent and think about what's best for your child when making these changes.


Cultural Sensitivity


When navigating custody arrangements, it is important to be culturally sensitive and understanding. This may include respecting holidays, traditions, and customs that are important to your co-parent's culture or religion. 

Respect cultural differences in parenting and co-parenting well while still honoring each other's beliefs. Talking and finding a middle ground are important to help your child feel accepted in their different cultures.


Emotional Healing


Finally, it may be necessary to revisit your separation/divorce agreement for emotional healing. If you still feel bitterness or anger towards your ex-spouse, it may be hard to move on from the past. Reviewing your agreement can help you find closure and move forward, especially if it wasn't fair in the first place.


Taking care of your emotions sets a good example for your child and makes co-parenting healthier. Remember to focus on the present and future, rather than dwelling on the past.


If there have been significant changes since your separation/divorce agreement, it is advisable to review it once more. It is important to consider revisiting your separation/divorce agreement if there have been substantial changes. If there have been considerable changes since your separation/divorce agreement, it would be beneficial to reassess it. Taking into account any significant changes since your separation/divorce agreement, it may be wise to reexamine it.


Angela Grant Lee will gladly assist you if feel your Agreement needs to be looked at and may need a revision.  Both parties must agree on any changes made, and a family lawyer should assist in making these changes. Reviewing your agreement can help you find closure. It can also help you move forward in life. Additionally, it can create a brighter future for you and your loved ones. Grant Lee Law is affordable and you will pay only for the service you need. 

Call Grant Lee Law at (905) 315-6837 to book your consultation.

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By Chelsey Smith • 09 Apr, 2024
Family law covers a broad range of legal issues, most of which are intimately connected with the relationships and interactions within a family. A proficient family law firm can provide indispensable guidance and representation in various situations such as:

Can I Change my Separation Agreement?

By Chelsey Smith • 01 Apr, 2024
In Ontario, modifying a separation agreement can be feasible but requires mutual consent from both parties involved. It's fundamental to understand that once a separation agreement is signed, it becomes a legally binding contract. Therefore, any changes or adjustments require careful negotiation and agreement from both spouses. Typically, this involves revisiting the terms and seeking legal counsel to ensure that any amendments are legally valid and reflect the current intentions and circumstances of both parties. If circumstances have significantly changed since the original agreement was made, such as changes in income, marital status, or living arrangements, these changes may provide a basis for revising the agreement. It’s crucial for both parties to openly discuss their current situations and come to a mutual understanding before proceeding with any legal modifications. Documentation supporting the changes, such as financial statements or evidence of a change in living circumstances, should be prepared to facilitate the process. Engaging in mediation may also be a helpful step towards reaching an agreement, as it provides a structured environment for negotiation with the assistance of a neutral third party. Once both parties have reached an agreement on the modifications, it's imperative that these changes are formalized in writing. This typically involves drafting a new document or an amendment to the original separation agreement that outlines the agreed upon adjustments. It’s highly recommended to seek assistance from a family law attorney, like Angela Grant Lee, to ensure the document complies with Ontario’s legal standards and fully captures the intent of both parties. This step is crucial not only for the enforceability of the agreement but also to prevent potential disputes in the future. After finalizing the document, both parties should sign it, preferably in the presence of a witness, to solidify its legal standing. Remember, it’s essential to keep updated copies of this document for your records, as it represents the current terms governing your separation. While it is possible to change a separation agreement in Ontario, it requires careful consideration and mutual consent from both parties. It’s crucial to approach any modifications with transparency, honesty, and proper legal guidance from a Family Law Attorney to be sure the changes accurately reflect the current circumstances and foster a fair resolution for all involved. Remember to keep open communication with your former spouse and seek professional assistance. Angela Grant Lee and her team at Grant Lee Law will help you get the Separation Agreement to suit your needs, call today 905-315-6837!
Child Custody Ontario

How is Child Custody Decided?

By Dawn Sherwin • 09 Feb, 2024
Child custody decisions are often complex and are determined based on the best interests of the child. Courts consider various factors, including the child's age, health, and emotional bonds with each parent, as well as the parents' ability to provide for the child's needs and their willingness to support the child's relationship with the other parent. The child's own wishes may also be taken into account if they are of sufficient age and maturity. The goal is to ensure a stable, loving, and safe environment for the child. In many cases, family courts prefer to award joint custody, which enables the child to maintain strong relationships with both parents post-divorce. This arrangement requires parents to work collaboratively in making major decisions affecting the child’s welfare. Nonetheless, sole custody may be determined when it appears to be in the child’s best interest, especially in instances where one parent may be deemed unfit due to reasons including substance abuse, a history of violence, or an inability to provide proper care. Custody evaluations by neutral professionals may play a vital role in the court’s decision, providing insight into the parenting capabilities and the child’s needs. Enlisting the help of Grant Lee Law can be invaluable when navigating the complexities of child custody. A skilled attorney can provide guidance through the legal process, advocate on your behalf, and help ensure that your rights are protected while also prioritizing the best interests of your child. With knowledge of family law and experience in custody cases, a lawyer can help in negotiating custody arrangements and parenting plans, handle court communications, and represent you during mediation sessions or court hearings. It's important to choose an attorney who is not only experienced but also someone you feel comfortable working with, as they will be a critical ally during what can be a challenging period. The primary types of child custody recognized in family law include: Physical Custody: This refers to where the child will live and with which parent. The parent with physical custody provides the day-to-day care for the child. Legal Custody: This involves the rights and responsibilities associated with making major decisions affecting the child's welfare, including choices about education, medical care, and religious upbringing. Sole Custody: Sole custody means one parent has either sole legal custody, sole physical custody, or both. This parent makes important decisions regarding the child's life and is the child's primary caretaker. Joint Custody: Also known as shared custody, this arrangement allows both parents to have significant roles in the child's life. Joint custody can be divided into joint legal custody, joint physical custody, or both, meaning parents share in the day-to-day upbringing and in making significant decisions. Split Custody: This is less common and involves siblings being split up, where one parent has full custody over some children, and the other parent has custody over the remaining siblings. Understanding these distinctions is crucial when seeking a custody arrangement that serves the best interest of the child. If you need help with your child’s custody arrangement know that Grant Lee Law is here to help. Angela Grant-Lee respects your needs and financial situation. Angela Grant-Lee and her invaluable team are a phone call away at 905-315-6837!
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