What kinds of family law cases does CDR Law handle?

CDR Law is a family law firm based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. We handle divorce, separation, parenting and custody disputes, child and spousal support, property division, adoption, and high-conflict family matters.

Our lawyers are trusted by Nova Scotia courts and have decades of combined experience guiding clients through difficult family transitions with clear, practical advice.

When do I need a lawyer, and when can I handle things myself?

You might be able to handle a simple, uncontested divorce on your own — but once agreements or court orders are signed, they are very hard to change.

Life changes — new jobs, new partners, new income, new schools — and the law doesn’t automatically adjust with you. Fixing or reopening a flawed agreement later is often more expensive than getting it right the first time.

A family lawyer’s real value isn’t paperwork; it’s foreseeing the “what-ifs” and protecting you from being stuck with an unworkable deal later.

How does property division work after separation in Nova Scotia?

If you’re married, the Matrimonial Property Act governs how property is split. Each spouse’s “net family property” — including homes, investments, pensions, and sometimes business interests — is compared and equalized.

If you’re not married, property division is more complicated and depends on who owns what and how things were paid for. These cases are common and can be costly to fix if handled incorrectly. Talking to a lawyer early helps you avoid surprises.

How is child support calculated in Nova Scotia?

Child support is usually based on the Federal Child Support Guidelines and the paying parent’s income. Extra expenses such as childcare or medical costs (“section 7 expenses”) can also be shared.

Even small details — like self-employment income, fluctuating pay, or new relationships — can affect support. An experienced lawyer makes sure the calculation is fair and that it can stand up to later review.

What is spousal support and how do courts decide it?

Spousal support depends on factors like the length of your relationship, your respective incomes, and the economic impact of the separation. Courts and lawyers use the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines (SSAGs) to estimate ranges.

The amount and duration aren’t automatic — they depend heavily on your facts. If you’ve been out of the workforce, supported your partner’s career, or run a shared business, get legal advice before agreeing to anything.

How are parenting arrangements decided?

Parenting in Nova Scotia focuses on the best interests of the child. The law talks about “decision-making responsibility” (who makes major decisions) and “parenting time” (the schedule).

If parents can’t agree, the court looks at evidence — not opinions — about what arrangement best supports the child’s well-being.

Even cooperative parents should have a written parenting plan drafted by a lawyer so it’s enforceable and avoids future disputes.

Can I change an existing court order or separation agreement?

Yes, but it’s often harder than people expect. You must show a material change in circumstances — meaning something significant has shifted since it was made.
This can include changes in income, parenting arrangements, health, or the needs of a child. It applies to support, custody, and parenting orders.

If your situation changes, speak to a lawyer early; the longer you wait, the harder it can be to prove the change and have the court vary the order.

What happens in an emergency or when there’s family violence?

If you or your children are unsafe, call 911. Nova Scotia’s Emergency Protection Order system can provide immediate legal protection.

Lawyers at CDR Law can also bring urgent court applications or help you navigate shelters, police involvement, and family-court safety planning.

You don’t have to wait for things to escalate — legal advice can be the safest first step.

What is the process for getting a divorce in Nova Scotia?

You can apply for divorce in the Supreme Court (Family Division) if you or your spouse live in Nova Scotia. Most cases are uncontested and done on paper, but contested ones go through conferences or trial.

You’ll need your long form marriage certificate, pleadings, and financial disclosure. Errors in these documents can delay the process. We help ensure your paperwork meets all legal requirements.

How do I choose the right family lawyer?

Experience in Nova Scotia family law matters more than anything else. Look for a law firm with local court experience, a strong record in both negotiation and litigation, and lawyers who communicate clearly about process and cost.

At CDR Law, every member of our family law team brings deep knowledge, practical insight, and compassion to their work. Several of our lawyers — including Julia Cornish K.C., Yvonne LaHaye K.C., and Kelsey Hudson — are recognized by Best Lawyers in Canada for excellence in family law, reflecting the strength and depth of our entire practice.