If you believe your marriage has come to an end, it is important to understand the Ottawa divorce process. Obtaining a decree dissolving your union could be more challenging than you realize, especially if you handle your case alone.
Paul Riley and the other tenacious divorce lawyers at The Paul Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm have extensive experience navigating the divorce process. Relying on the firm’s guidance could help you avoid delays and secure a positive outcome for your divorce during this difficult time.
Some of the most important work that goes into a divorce should occur before the process formally starts. Once you are certain your marriage is coming to an end, it is a good idea to collect as much documentation as you can about your debts and assets.
Copies of your bank statements are a good place to start, as this information can paint a picture of your general financial position. It can also provide your Ottawa lawyer with evidence if your spouse makes any suspicious transactions at the end of your marriage as part of the divorce process. You will also want proof of ownership regarding major assets, like vehicles or real estate.
You must meet certain conditions to have your marriage dissolved. Your union must be legal, although it could have occurred in Canada or some other country. It is also necessary to show the court that you have already separated from your spouse or intend to do so. Finally, one of the parties must have lived in the province for at least 12 months prior to filing.
To formally begin this divorce process in Ottawa, you must complete some paperwork known as the divorce application. These documents are standard, and they are best completed with the help of a lawyer. Once it is filled out, your next step will be to file it with the court.
You will also need to submit some supporting documents along with your application. First, you will need to provide a copy of your marriage license. Additionally, affidavits must be provided to the court. Once you turn in everything, your spouse will be notified of the filing. The next steps in the process allow them a chance to respond. They can agree with your position that there are grounds to end the marriage, or they could dispute your allegations. It is also not uncommon for the other party not to respond at all with formal pleadings of their own.
After both sides submit all the information, it is time for the court to decide. A judge will evaluate the application and supporting documentation to ensure that the marriage is valid and that the requirements for divorce have been met. If the judge agrees to grant the application, both parties will be notified of the decision. Within 30 days of that date, the soon-to-be-former spouses will receive a certificate from the court in Ottawa officially divorcing the two people as part of the process.
Navigating the Ottawa divorce process alone can be overwhelming. From finding the paperwork to ensuring you have met all the criteria, there is plenty of room for making a mistake.
However, the team at The Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm understand what is at stake. Our experienced legal team is available around the clock to answer your questions and meet your needs. Call right away to learn more and to schedule a consultation meeting.
Now you can have your Consultation with Paul Riley any time from the comfort of your own home. With video calls from Zoom, your Team at The Riley Divorce & Family Law Firm can meet with you virtually, and learn about your case. All you need is a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop with a built-in camera and microphone.
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