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Divorce Law

Custody Arbitration and Family Law Mediation in Ottawa

At Julie I. Guindon, we understand that divorce is one of the most stressful situations anyone can be involved in. We also realize that you don’t just need a divorce lawyer in stressful times like this, but you need someone who believes in you and your right to a secured future. When resolving any family law matter, it is essential to consider all the possible options and outcomes, including custody arbitration and family law mediation. Whether you are looking for a family lawyer or require a leading divorce lawyer in Ottawa, consult with one of our knowledgeable lawyers. We are committed to providing comprehensive solutions and satisfaction for every client.

What Is Custody Arbitration and Mediation?

Custody arbitration and family law mediation Ottawa are alternative dispute resolution (ADR) methods to help you and your spouse resolve disagreements outside the courtroom. These methods are often less formal and more collaborative than traditional litigation, and they can significantly reduce the emotional toll and legal costs of divorce and custody battles.

 

  • Custody arbitration: In custody arbitration, a neutral third party (the arbitrator) is appointed to hear both sides of the dispute and make a legally binding decision. This is a more structured process than mediation, where the arbitrator acts similarly to a judge, providing a final ruling on issues such as child custody and visitation arrangements.
     

  • Family law mediation: Mediation involves a neutral mediator who works with both parties to facilitate communication and help them negotiate mutually agreeable solutions to family law issues. Unlike arbitration, the mediator does not make decisions but instead assists both parties in agreeing on matters such as custody, child support, and property division. Mediation can be more flexible and less adversarial, often leading to more satisfactory long-term arrangements.

 

Read our blog to learn more about the intricacies of custody arbitration and family law mediation in Ottawa, and contact us today for a consultation.

 

What We Do

Julie I. Guindon is a premier divorce law firm based in Ottawa. We know divorce matters inside and out. Our divorce lawyers have helped thousands of clients move forward. We believe that focused experience delivers better results. Our lawyers aim to resolve your family matters as quickly and efficiently as possible. We provide our legal services with integrity, professionalism and respect for our clients and the community. 

 

Even though there are certain common elements in most family law cases, every client has a unique story that requires keen analysis and a definitive plan on how best to proceed. At Julie I. Guindon, we analyze each case and create tailored solutions to ease our clients after the divorce and move into their post-divorce lifestyle. You, as our client, can be confident that very knowledgeable and experienced professionals will handle your legal matters. We assure you that you have a strong team protecting your rights and working to achieve a solution. 

 
If you are looking to get advice on legal matters such as family law and parenting coordination after your divorce, Julie I. Guindon can help. Count on our divorce lawyers for customized solutions based on your specific needs. 

 

The Types of Divorces

 Most people decide to end their marriage without knowing what follows next. Divorces can and cannot end amicably. In most cases, issues between the husband and wife may need to be resolved, and properties may need to be legally divided. Our compassionate divorce lawyers at Julie I. Guindon in Ottawa can efficiently guide you through the ins and outs of the divorce process so you can manage your family as your marriage ends.


When it comes to divorce procedures, a divorce can only happen in two ways - contested and uncontested. Read below in detail to know what encompasses both types of divorces and how you can navigate through them.

 

Contested Divorce

A contested divorce is a formal way in which a person seeks divorce from their spouse. This type of divorce is usually exercised in cases where mutual consent to ending the marriage is not possible. In instances when you are facing an impasse in arriving at a concrete decision involving critical matters such as child custody, your lawyer will advise you to go for a contested divorce proceeding. Once you are involved in this type of divorce proceeding, your legal counsel and the court will intervene to resolve the dispute. ​​​

 

Generally, a contested divorce proceeding takes up to several months, depending upon the complexity of the dispute. 


Uncontested Divorce

This is the most common and preferred way of ending marriages between spouses. Uncontested divorces primarily deal with you and your spouse amicably settling matters involving financial assets, child support, etc. Here, all the issues of concern are peacefully resolved in court after both of you file a petition.

 

How Long Does the Divorce Procedure Take?

To apply for a divorce, one must have been separated from their spouse for at least one year. Once the parties agree, a divorce application will ordinarily be processed, and the divorce will be granted within six months.

 

Grounds for Divorce

Generally, divorces are complex and involve a variety of considerations that affect the situation. To be eligible to apply for a divorce in the province, you must meet any of the following conditions:

 

  • You and your spouse have lived separately for more than a year.

  • Your spouse has committed adultery.

  • Your spouse is intolerably mentally or physically (or both) cruel to you.

 

Julie I. Guindon is an experienced divorce lawyer in Ottawa who will ensure that your rights are respected. Not only that, but she also considers the rights and well-being of other family members, especially your children. She will collaborate with you, your spouse, and their lawyers to reach a desirable settlement. 

 

Factors

 

As we've mentioned above, divorce is a complicated matter affected by numerous factors. When going through your divorce proceeding, we can help you take care of various outstanding issues that include the following:

 

  • Division of property

  • Disposition of the marital property

  • Child custody

  • Child access

  • Child support

  • Spousal support

  • Asset division

  • And more

 

How Julie I. Guindon Can Help

Julie I. Guindon is an experienced family law professional specializing in custody arbitration Ottawa and family law mediation Ottawa. We are committed to providing effective and compassionate legal services to families needing guidance during a difficult time. Our goal is to help you reach a fair and lasting resolution that protects your rights and the best interests of your children.

 

Contact Us Today

 

Get in touch with our team at Julie I. Guindon today if you are considering a divorce and have questions – we are here to help in any way that we can. Julie will make the process extremely convenient and hassle-free for you. Contact our firm to find out more about our divorce services in Ottawa. We will be more than happy to assist you!

Questions about our services?

Reliable Assistance in Separation Agreements

You can rely on Julie I. Guindon for dependable mediation for a separation agreement.

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