/ Divorce & Separation

Separation is a major life change. We're here to help.

A separation agreement is a legally binding contract that outlines how you and your ex will resolve key issues. It may include parenting time, decision-making, child and spousal support, and property division. When done correctly, it provides clarity and ensures enforceability without requiring court intervention.

At Galbraith Family Law, we help clients negotiate fair and practical separation agreements that reflect their needs. While some people attempt to draft agreements on their own, mistakes can render them unenforceable, leading to costly legal fixes. Our experienced family lawyers ensure your agreement is legally sound, enforceable, and built to last—saving you time, stress, and money in the long run.

Why Choose a Separation Agreement?

Once your separation agreement is signed, you may proceed with an uncontested divorce, minimizing legal costs.

Reasons to choose a separation agreement:

  • Avoids court battles, making the process faster, less stressful, and cost-effective
  • Provides certainty around parenting schedules, financial responsibilities, and property division
  • Allows for customized solutions that work for both parties
  • Ensures compliance with Ontario law, reducing future disputes

Understanding Separation

When separating from a partner, there are three key distinctions to consider:

1

Trial Separation

A temporary break to decide if reconciliation is possible. Legal and financial obligations remain unchanged.

2

Permanent Separation

Living apart with no intent to reconcile. Assets and debts acquired after separation belong solely to each individual.

3

Divorce

A final legal termination of marriage, which requires a judge’s approval.

Some couples choose legal separation instead of divorce due to personal, cultural, or financial reasons. However, a separation agreement does not end a marriage, you will need a divorce to remarry.

Key Components of a Separation Agreement

A well-crafted separation agreement should cover:

Parenting Time & Plans

Custody arrangements, decision-making authority, and holiday schedules

Child & Spousal Support

Financial obligations based on Ontario guidelines

Property & Debt Division

Equalization of assets, liabilities, and financial responsibilities

Future Dispute Resolution

Steps to handle disagreements or potential changes
Confident in their professionalism and support from the very beginning

First off, I was very impressed with Galbraith’s online persona/presence. Speaking over the phone, again I was impressed with the warmth and clarity of communications. While my separation agreement is yet to be actually started, the quality of my early exchanges with Galbraith have been such that I feel confident in their professionalism and flexibility, and have every expectation of a satisfactory outcome.

Katherine Ellis

Questions?

Contact us

At Galbraith Family Law, we have years of experience helping individuals and families navigate complex legal matters with clarity and support. Whether you're facing divorce, separation, or other family issues, our experienced team is here to guide you.

We proudly serve clients in Barrie, Newmarket, Oakville, and St. Catharines, Ontario.

See more services

Parenting Agreements

Parenting agreements can ease the stress of separation, and our experienced team helps you create a plan that works for everyone involved.

Collaborative Practice

Collaborative Practice is a voluntary process in which separating spouses (both married and common law) settle the issues arising from their relationship or marriage, without resorting to Family Court.

Division of Property Agreements

Who gets what? Determining the answer to that question can be complicated. Our equalization and division of property experts can help you find a fair solution.

Mediation

Mediation can reduce conflict and costs, and our trained mediators help you reach fair, respectful solutions without going to court.

Divorce

Going through a divorce can be a traumatic experience – and our professional, caring lawyers understand what you are going through.

Independent Legal Advice

Independent legal advice gives you clarity and confidence, and our team ensures you fully understand your rights before signing any agreement.
Barrie

124 Dunlop Street West
Barrie, ON L4N 1B1
(705) 727-4242

Newmarket

1195 Stellar Drive, Unit 4
Newmarket, ON L3Y 7B8
(289) 319-0634

Oakville

209 Speers Road, Unit 13
Oakville, ON L6K 0H5
(905) 291-6634

St. Catharines

110 James Street, Unit 105
St. Catharines, ON L2R 7E8
(905) 291-5231

© 1993–2026 Galbraith Family Law Professional Corporation · All Rights Reserved

© 1993–2026 Galbraith Family Law Professional Corporation

All Rights Reserved

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