Though people living in a common-law marriage are not considered married in Canada, many of their rights are the same when the relationship ends.
Spousal Support
When it comes to spousal support, both married and common-law couples are generally treated the same way. The big difference during separation when comparing marriage and a common-law union is the division of property. This is where the legal advice of a divorce lawyer is best sought out.
Child Support
Child-related issues are approached the same way, whether it’s a common-law relationship or a marriage. The first question the judges always ask is: ‘What is in the best interests of the children?’ They first determine the primary residence of the children. Then issue child support according to the Federal Child Support Guidelines. A grid outlines the expectations of the payer based on their income, regardless of the other person’s income. Whether married or unmarried, the biological parent is obligated to pay child support.
Children from prior unions
If someone comes into a relationship with a child from another relationship and their common-law spouse takes on a parenting role, that person could be required to pay child support. This is called standing “in locus parentis”. The court considers how long they’ve been living with the child. Their involvement with discipline. Attendance at important meetings like parent-teacher interviews. Whether the person was called “dad” or “mom”. As well as whether they helped to financially support the children.
Biological parents and child support
The situation becomes more complicated when a biological parent is part of the equation.
For example, if a stepfather has become like a father to the child, he may be required to pay child support.
The courts begin with the assumption that the biological father should pay the full amount in accordance with the Child Support Guidelines. They then review the stepfather’s income and what the Guidelines stipulate he should be paying. Often, there is a reduction in the stepfather’s obligation but this is dependent on the biological parent’s responsibilities. The first obligation is from the biological parent. If he is paying a trivial amount of support because his income is low and the stepfather has a substantial income, the stepfather may be ordered to pay most of the amount that the Guideline suggests. It can become complicated. Our lawyers can help guide you through a negotiated settlement using the Collaborative Process.
The same principles that apply to heterosexual couples apply to same-sex couples. Whether married or common law and whether or not they have children or have acquired property.
