A Simplified Guide When Signing Separation Agreement Ontario

By Deborah Martin


There comes a time when partners have to go separate ways. Because of the bond that existed and the presence of either property or children, it is important to sign a detailed separation agreement Ontario. It will determine what each takes and how others that cannot be divided will be utilized or handled. It also guides all future interactions to avoid conflicts or disagreements.

The agreement must not be seen as an avenue to keep one person away from the other. Rather, it is an opportunity to define the path and manner of interaction after separating. It also helps to maintain sanity as well as ensure that no party is treated unfairly in the process. What should you consider to make the deal valid in law?

Ensure that all elements involving the parties and related properties or children are covered. You must scrutinize all areas in your life and ensure that there are no loopholes. Thorough coverage should address issues that do not change over time. However, make mention and provision of issues that could change.

Issues agreed must be mentioned or entered with precision. Do not leave open ends and ambiguous areas that are subject to multiple interpretations. For instance, if you have a vehicle, mention its model and who should go with it. Without precise information, interpretation will be a challenge and may be done in a way that does not favor you.

The agreement must be based on factual information. If you indicate that your partner owns an apartment, it must be his and not one belonging to his family, for instance. The names used on the paper must be the exact ones used on official documents. The dates and their ranges must also be accurate. Bank account numbers, addresses and such markers must be captured with accuracy. Any inaccurate information could cause the entire deal to be nullified.

Personalize the agreement to reflect your unique scenario. Relatives, friends and associates can create agreements the way they want. Copying means that you are attempting to apply a One-Size-Fit-All scenario that does not work in all situations. Such copying will mean that you get the shorter end of the bargain. You will be creating an opportunity for conflicts.

Mind the future by predicting it. There is a lot of tension as people separate such that most will not want to meet again or will desire the least possible contact. However, it is always prudent to anticipate that children may desire to be with their other parent or may be brought together by circumstances. Make provision for changes that are beyond your control in future.

A realistic approach to negotiations will save you a lot of stress in future. The reality is that it is, for example, impossible to control what happens in the life of your spouse. You might bump on to him when taking a walk or be brought together by school activities. This means that being strict and demanding to follow the dictates of the deal will be unrealistic. However, do not leave too much loophole. Otherwise, it will nullify everything you have agreed.

Work with a professional to review issues agreed before you can file it in court. A lawyer will help you tie the loose ends even though he might not participate in actual drafting. Protect your interests as much as possible but also be realistic.




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