Kay & McCourt, Barristers and Solicitors
282 George Street K9A 3L8 Cobourg, ON, Canada

Our new blog post talks about the role of financial disclosure in the Family Court process, and some of the consequences when a party fails to meet their disclosure obligations. The post can be found at the link below: https://www.kayandmccourt.com/2020/12/family-law-blog/

Our lawyers have noticed that many of the reported Family Law cases during the pandemic have dealt with interim parenting arrangements. In our most recent blog, we consider how the "status quo" parenting arrangements may impact the outcome of a custody/access motion. You can find this most recent blog, along with articles on various other Family Law topics at the link below:... https://www.kayandmccourt.com//the-status-quo-how-is-it-r/

Our newest blog post looks at how the court is dealing with custody and access issues that arise during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the outcome in each case will depend on its facts, the case cited in our blog post below provides some helpful direction for parents during this very uncertain time. https://www.kayandmccourt.com//parenting-arrangements-and/

With the ongoing COVID-19 health crisis, many separated families are left with questions around dealing with their custody arrangements. The link below released by the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and the Association of Family and Conciliation Courts provides some tips for parents in this difficult time. Although these are not Canadian organizations, and some of their recommendations may not be applicable in Ontario or in every case, they're worth a read if you're looking for information on the topic. Every case is unique, and if you have questions specific to your case, it is best to consult with an experienced family lawyer. Our office remains open for telephone and video appointments for new and existing clients. Contact us at (905) 372-1994 if you'd like to arrange an appointment.

Our office continues to be fully operational; however, we are implementing strategies to protect the safety and well-being of our staff and our clients. As a result, we have adopted the following policies: (1) In office appointments will be limited to only essential meetings. We will be contacting clients by phone to screen for potential COVID-19 exposure. ... (2) If you have travelled outside of Canada within the past 14 days, if you have come in contact with someone who is or may be affected by COVID-19 or if you are exhibiting any symptoms of the virus (fever, cough or difficulty breathing), your appointment will be rescheduled. (3) All non-essential client meetings will be converted to telephone appointments where possible. Where telephone appointments are not practical, your appointment may be rescheduled. (4) Clients with in-office appointments will be asked to use hand sanitizer available at our reception desk upon arrival. (5) Clients are asked to bring their own pens to appointments for signing documents. (6) We will be wiping down our reception area, office furniture and door handles with sanitizing wipes after each client meeting. (7) There is to be no physical contact whatsoever between staff and clients. At the present time, our office remains open for scheduled appointments, only. We are continuing to schedule telephone or video appointments for new and current clients. Please do not attend at our office without a scheduled appointment. Our staff remain available by telephone and e-mail during office hours. We will continue to assess and revise this policy as necessary as new information becomes available. We are dedicated to client service and are strongly of the view that access to timely legal advice is essential. In the event that a full office closure is required, we will implement strategies to ensure our clients have ongoing access to our services by telephone and e-mail. Please note: The Superior Court of Justice has adjourned all non-urgent Family and Civil court matters. If your matter has a scheduled court attendance, we will contact you once we have further information regarding rescheduling. Unless you hear otherwise from us, you should assume that your case is not proceeding on the scheduled date. We encourage all clients with cases scheduled to be in Court over the next several weeks to review the COVID-19 advisory issued by the Superior Court of Justice at https://www.ontariocourts.ca/scj/covid-19-suspension-fam/

Nearing retirement and wondering what this could mean for your support obligations? Take a look at our latest blog at the link below: https://www.kayandmccourt.com//voluntary-retirement-is-it/

Our blog has been updated with the second post in our series discussing the amendments to Canada's Divorce Act. In our latest post, we talk about changes to the procedure where one parent wishes to relocate with a child. Check it out at https://www.kayandmccourt.com//canadas-divorce-act-amendm/

Kay & McCourt will be closed on Monday, October 14th for Thanksgiving Day, reopening at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 15th. Have a great long weekend, everyone.

Kay & McCourt, Barristers and Solicitors is now open and accepting clients at our new location, 282 George Street in Cobourg. Check out our new website and updated Blog at: https://www.kayandmccourt.com/our-blog/