Child Custody Lawyers in Guelph
Parenting time during a divorce or separation can be challenging. It is important to have legal professionals that will advocate for your parental rights and the rights of your children.
MFC Lawyers will work closely with you to arrange agreements that focus on the safety, health, and well-being of your children.
— P. Edwards"I cannot say enough positive things about Erika. Her knowledge of the law is incredible and made me feel extremely comfortable. She has always given me honest and reasonable advice based on the most likely outcome. Erika has gone above and beyond to meet urgent deadlines and her work product has always been exceptional. She has listened to me throughout the process, been responsive, and her entire staff has been a pillar of support in what has been the most emotionally challenging experience of my life. Erika has exceeded my expectations in all respects. I will continue to recommend her whenever I have the opportunity to do so."
Decision-Making Responsibility
Child custody has evolved. What was formerly known as child custody is now referred to as Decision-Making Responsibility. This refers to the legal obligation of one or both parents to make significant decisions concerning childrens’ well-being. These important decisions encompass all major aspects of a child’s life:
- Health and medical care;
- education;
- cultural, religious, and spiritual upbringing;
- involvement in extracurricular activities
It is the responsibility of the parent(s) with decision-making authority to ensure that their choices are always based on the best interests of the child — prioritizing their physical, emotional, and psychological safety, security, and well-being.
Parenting Time
This refers to the specific period during which a parent is primarily responsible for the care and well-being of their children. This includes the time when the children are attending school or daycare. During their designated parenting time, each parent has the exclusive authority to make day-to-day decisions affecting their children’s life. The allocation of parenting time aims to ensure that the children’s physical, emotional, and psychological needs are met while maintaining a structured and supportive environment for their growth and development.
How Our Firm Can Help You
MFC Lawyers’ expert legal advice and representation will protect your parental rights through the following services:
- Assessing your situation and providing tailored advice based on the unique circumstances of your case.
- Advocating for your interests in negotiations, mediation, or other alternative dispute resolution methods, aiming to reach a fair and amicable agreement on decision-making responsibilities.
- Preparing and reviewing legal documents, including parenting plans and agreements, to ensure they are in line with your goals and the best interests of your children.
- Representing you in court proceedings, if necessary, to assert your rights and argue for a decision-making responsibility arrangement that prioritizes your children’s well-being.
- Providing ongoing support and guidance throughout the process, addressing any concerns or questions that arise, and helping you navigate potential challenges or changes in circumstances.
Best Interests of the Child
Navigating separation and divorce means planning for your children and their future. Our family lawyers will ensure that your children’s best interests are at the forefront of any parenting plan.
In family law, the best interests of the child are the sole consideration when determining:
- Who will make decisions for your children (both parents together, or one parent alone)?
- How will you make decisions for your children – what happens if you disagree?
- How will your children spend time with each of their parents? What kind of schedule supports their well-being?
Skilled attorneys at MFC Lawyers will work with you to create a parenting plan specific to your child and their needs to help them thrive after separation.
FAQs About Child Custody Lawyers and Decision-Making Responsibility
Click to read answers to some of our most frequently asked questions about decision-making responsibilities.
In Ontario, there is no specific age at which a child can decide which parent they will live with. The Court will consider the child’s wishes in conjunction with other factors when determining the best interests of the child.
To change a custody agreement in Ontario, you can either negotiate a new agreement with the other parent or file a motion to change with the court, providing evidence supporting the need for modification.
In Ontario, you can request temporary custody by filing a motion for temporary custody with the court, outlining your reasons, and providing supporting evidence.