By: Sarah Nasser
Travel is a fun and exciting time for children. It exposes them to new environments, new people and different cultures. But before you pack their bags and take them to the airport, you might need to take care of a little extra paperwork.
Travel consent letters are generally prepared for a parent who intends to travel internationally with their child(ren) absent the other parent. While not a legal requirement when travelling, a travel consent letter is highly recommended by the Government of Canada and family lawyers alike, especially on international trips where it may be requested by immigration authorities and/or Canadian officials. Failure to produce a letter upon request may result in delays and/or refusal to enter or exit a country.
It is not just separated and/or divorced spouses that may need a travel consent letter. If a minor child is travelling without their custodial guardians, whether that is their grandparents or their basketball coach across the Canadian border, it will also be necessary to obtain and carry a travel consent letter.
What if you have sole custody of your child(ren)? Despite having sole or final decision making rights for your child(ren), it is strongly recommended that the travel consent letter is signed both by parents with custodial rights and by parents with access rights to the child(ren).
Do I have to sign a travel consent letter? Generally most parties get travel consent orders signed by the other party without issue, however, if the other parent does not consent to the travel letter, a court application will be necessary to ensure you are able to travel. Best practice is to ask for consent early to ensure there is time to bring an application if required.
Please note that we always suggest getting the travel consent letter notarized by a Notary Public to ensure that you will be able to travel. If you need a Notary Public please contact our office.
Suitcase? Check. Passport? Check. Travel Consent Letter?
The Double-Edged Sword that is Social Media
By Sarah Nasser
For better or for worse, social media is here to stay. Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, Skype, and Snap Chat – the platforms are endless. In the family law context social media has undoubtedly been a useful tool for separated families, when used responsibly. These platforms have allowed parents and children to remain connected and share moments in real time. In fact, this type of communication is now frequently included in Parenting Orders to ensure that children have regular communication with both of their parents when they are not physically with them.
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Sandy Vander Ziel wins 2016 WILL Award
Women in Law Leadership Award for Service to the Community for all of Alberta
Sandy A. Vander Ziel is a Family Law Lawyer with Dunphy Best Blocksom LLP in Calgary. Sandy was admitted to the Alberta Bar in 2001 and has been practicing family law exclusively since 2002. Sandy is a Mediator, Arbitrator, Collaborative Lawyer and a Dispute Resolution Officer at the Court of Queen’s Bench in Calgary. Sandy’s practice is mainly focused on Alternative Dispute Resolution and she works closely with her client’s to bring finality to their family matters with a focus on the best interests of the children and maintaining a healthy post-separation parenting environment.
Lawyers from DBB listed in 2017 Best Lawyers® in Canada
DBB is proud to be recognized as a “Top Listed” firm in Best Lawyers® (2017) with four lawyers selected in the areas of family law, alternative dispute resolution and family law mediation.
Resolving Family Disputes Outside the Court System
Separation and Divorce can be a very challenging time. The financial and emotional strains are hard enough but many folks who are separating aren’t aware of how to even begin the process of legally dividing assets, setting up parenting arrangements or providing for financial support. Often people start by filing documents that can initial a lengthy court fight without even being aware that there are other ways to resolve family disputes.
Recent case on spousal and child support highlights importance of settling early
Aaron Martens of DBB was counsel for the Appellant in the recent Court of Appeal decision rendered on April 27, 2016, in what has turned out to be a long, expensive trial for both parties on spousal and child support. This case highlights the importance of considering mediation or alternate dispute resolution strategies early on in family cases to resolve issues more efficiently.
When your income changes: how to vary your child support obligations
By Lara Pendrel
The reality of the depressed oil and gas market is being felt by everyone these days. We all know someone in our lives who has been laid off over these past few months and many people are fearful that it may happen to them next.
Recent Ontario divorce case shows serious pitfalls of parents contemplating litigation over custody
By Sandy Vander Ziel
The recent decision of Justice Pazaratz in Jackson v Mayerle is a decision that all parents contemplating litigation over custody need to read and seriously consider.
When Do I Need a Tax Lawyer?
By Catherine Gerrits, Tax, Wills and Estates Specialist
Do I need a tax lawyer? It’s a question I hear every day, and the answer is never clear-cut. Not just for disputes with Canada Revenue Agency, a tax lawyer can help you at any and all stages of your life and career.
Family Law Support
In representing their clients, family law practitioners commonly run across issues outside their areas of expertise. These issues can have a profound impact on the conduct of a family file and the ability of the practitioner to provide up to date and beneficial advice. Some of the most common area are set out below.
