Family Law Services | Sanctuary Lawyers

Family legal matters can be among the most challenging and emotional experiences in a person’s life. At Sanctuary Lawyers, we understand the complexities and sensitivities involved in family law cases. Based in Aurora, Ontario, we are dedicated to providing compassionate, experienced, and strategic representation to clients across Southern Ontario.

Whether you’re dealing with child custody, decision-making, divorce, property division, spousal support, child support, or restraining orders, our team of family law experts is here to guide you every step of the way. We pride ourselves on achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients while minimizing the stress and heartache often associated with family disputes.

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Areas We Handle in Family Law

Child Custody & Decision-Making Responsibility

In Ontario, the term “custody” has been replaced by “decision-making responsibility” and “parenting time.” Decision-making responsibility refers to a parent’s legal authority to make key decisions about a child’s upbringing—such as education, medical care, and religion. Parenting time is the schedule outlining when a child is in the care of each parent.

These cases can be emotionally complex and fact-specific. Sanctuary Lawyers provides strong, child-focused advocacy that prioritizes the best interests of your children while protecting your parental rights. We take the time to understand your family dynamic, ensuring tailored strategies for both high-conflict and cooperative arrangements.

Divorce & Separation

Divorce and separation matters often involve layers of legal, emotional, and procedural challenges. Whether you're ending a marriage or a common-law relationship, our experienced counsel helps navigate the division of responsibilities, parenting, and financial arrangements that follow.

Sanctuary Lawyers tailors your case based on your goals. If you want a quick resolution, we will work toward efficient outcomes. If a trial or extended litigation is required to protect your interests, we’re equally prepared for that path.

Property Disputes

Property division after separation can involve homes, businesses, pensions, investments, or jointly owned assets. For married spouses, Ontario law generally provides for an equal division of net family property. For common-law couples, different principles may apply—often requiring careful litigation strategy.

We provide experienced representation in both simple and high-value property disputes, ensuring your legal and financial interests are fully protected throughout the court process.

Spousal & Child Support

Child support is calculated under the Federal Child Support Guidelines, and spousal support is determined by the Spousal Support Advisory Guidelines, but each case requires individual analysis. Length of relationship, income disparity, parental roles, and future needs all factor into your entitlement or obligations.

Sanctuary Lawyers ensures that your support arrangements are fair, enforceable, and based on full financial disclosure. Whether you are pursuing support or defending a claim, we’ll advocate for a result that aligns with your legal entitlements and financial position.

Restraining Orders & Family Protection

We represent clients seeking or defending against restraining orders under both the Family Law Act and the Criminal Code. These situations are often urgent and emotionally charged. Sanctuary Lawyers acts quickly to prepare court materials, appear on short notice, and protect your rights and safety through strategic advocacy.

Why Choose Sanctuary Lawyers for Family Law Matters?

Experienced Family Law Advocates

With a proven record in family law litigation, our team understands the complexities and emotional weight of these cases. We bring over a decade of experience and a commitment to client-centred representation.

Client-Focused Legal Strategies

We listen to your goals and concerns to tailor a strategy that meets your needs—whether that means a swift resolution or a thorough fight for your rights. Our flexible approach ensures you receive personalized care every step of the way.

Comprehensive Case Preparation

Sanctuary Lawyers initiates each case with a complete review of documentation and in-depth discussions with you. We create a clear, actionable strategy while anticipating opposing arguments and ensuring no detail is overlooked.

Proven Track Record

We have achieved success through trial, motions, negotiation, and mediation. Our team’s preparation, advocacy, and elite strategy set us apart in family law representation.

Compassionate, Family-Centred Advocacy

Family law is deeply personal. Whether you're navigating parenting arrangements, supporting your children through separation, or protecting your family from harm, we understand the emotional toll these cases can take. Sanctuary Lawyers approaches each matter with compassion and empathy—especially when children are involved. We advocate for solutions that protect your rights while prioritizing the safety, well-being, and long-term stability of your family.

Our Family Law Process

Step 1: Free Initial Consultation

We begin with a complimentary consultation to understand your case, explain your options, and outline the path forward.

Step 2: Comprehensive Case Review

We analyze all relevant documentation and conduct thorough discussions with you to gather essential details.

Step 3: Strategy Development

Our lawyers build a customized plan tailored to your goals, balancing timelines, costs, and desired outcomes.

Step 4: Court Representation and Advocacy

Whether in negotiations, mediation, or trial, we provide strong, strategic advocacy to protect your rights and achieve the best result.

Step 5: Ongoing Communication and Support

We maintain consistent communication and provide updates to ensure you’re informed and supported throughout the process.

Areas We Service

Toronto

Mississauga

Hamilton

London

Niagara Falls

Kitchener

Brampton

Burlington

Windsor

Waterloo

St. Catharines

Oakville

Cambridge

Guelph

Richmond Hill

Oshawa

Barrie

Newmarket

North York

Cobourg

Markham

Orillia

Vaughan

Pickering

Ajax

Orangeville

Brantford

Belleville

FAQs: Family Law at Sanctuary Lawyers

Navigating family law issues can be overwhelming and emotionally challenging. At Sanctuary Lawyers, we strive to provide clear and practical answers to the questions our clients most frequently ask. Below, we’ve compiled a list of common concerns to help guide you through the family law process.

The length of a family law case varies depending on its complexity, the cooperation of the parties involved, and the court’s schedule. Some cases resolve through negotiation or mediation in a matter of months, while others may require court intervention and can take a year or more.

Custody decisions are made in the best interests of the child. The court considers factors such as the child’s age, relationships with each parent, and each parent’s ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment.

Spousal support is financial assistance provided by one spouse to the other after separation or divorce. It depends on factors such as the length of the relationship, each spouse’s income and earning capacity, and their roles during the relationship.

Not always. Many family law matters can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or alternative dispute resolution. In fact, some regions in Ontario (like Toronto, Ottawa, and Windsor) require mandatory mediation before trial. Our lawyers will guide you through all resolution options and strive to achieve favorable outcomes while minimizing the stress and cost of court proceedings.

Sanctuary Lawyers offers transparent fee structures, including block fees and payment plans where appropriate. We will discuss costs during your initial consultation to help you plan confidently.

Contact Sanctuary Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one is facing a family law dispute, don’t wait. Contact Sanctuary Lawyers today for a free initial consultation. Our experienced team is here to protect your interests, provide compassionate guidance, and fight for the best possible outcome.

At Sanctuary Lawyers, we don’t just handle cases—we protect families and futures.

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