Divorce & Family Lawyer Barrie & Surrounding Areas
Family breakdown demands skilled legal guidance. Our divorce lawyers in Barrie and Orillia protect your interests through separation, custody disputes, and property settlements.
Ontario’s family law system involves complex regulations, mandatory disclosure, and strict procedures that create pitfalls. Whether you’re in Barrie, Orillia, Innisfil, or any of the surrounding Simcoe County communities, professional representation protects your rights throughout the legal process.
About Our Barrie & Orillia Family Law Practice
Stephen Durbin and Associates brings over 30 years family law experience to Simcoe County clients. We emphasize resolution without prolonged litigation, though we advocate aggressively when necessary.
We handle straightforward separations and complex disputes involving high-value assets, business valuations, and contested custody. Serving the region from Highway 400 to Lake Simcoe communities, we provide accessible representation when families need it most.
Our Barrie & Orillia Divorce Lawyers are Focused on a Fair Path
Every separation requires a tailored strategy based on specific circumstances and goals. Our team will guide you carefully through the process.
Uncontested divorce: Agreement on all terms allows efficient processing. We handle documentation, filing, and court requirements to finalize your divorce quickly.
Contested divorce: Disputes over custody, support, or assets demand strategic advocacy. We build compelling cases, negotiate forcefully, and litigate effectively when settlement fails.
Post-divorce: Changed circumstances require modifications. Job loss, remarriage, relocation, we address variations to support and custody arrangements as life evolves.
Our Family Law Services in Barrie & Surrounding Areas
We manage all stages of divorce: application preparation, service, financial disclosure, negotiation, and court appearances. Our family lawyers in Barrie ensure compliance with procedural requirements and deadlines.
Children need stability during family transitions. We craft detailed parenting plans covering residential schedules, holiday allocation, decision-making authority, and communication protocols.
Whether pursuing sole decision-making, joint arrangements, or parallel parenting structures, our focus remains on children’s well-being and maintaining meaningful relationships with both parents.
Support calculations require precision. We apply the Federal Child Support Guidelines, taking into account income, parenting time, and shared custody. Section 7 expenses, like sports, music lessons, tutoring, and orthodontics, are properly allocated. Accurate calculations prevent future disputes and ensure children’s needs are met.
Spousal support requires establishing entitlement before determining the amount and duration. We evaluate compensatory claims, non-compensatory needs, and contractual obligations. Advisory Guidelines provide ranges; we advise on appropriate figures considering specific circumstances.
Ontario’s equalization regime divides wealth accumulated through marriage. We calculate net family property, including real estate, RRSPs, pensions, vehicles, and business interests. Proper valuation prevents inequitable outcomes. Exclusions and deductions, such as inheritances, gifts, and pre-marital assets, require documentation. The matrimonial home receives special treatment with no deduction for value at the marriage date.
Documented agreements prevent litigation. We prepare comprehensive separation agreements addressing every issue: parenting, support, property, and debt allocation. Cohabitation agreements establish clear expectations for couples entering into relationships, protecting both parties in the event of separation.
Alternative dispute resolution saves time and money. Mediation, arbitration, and collaborative approaches offer paths to settlement without courtroom confrontation. We guide clients through these processes while protecting their interests and ensuring agreements are legally sound.
When negotiation fails, we litigate. Our courtroom experience includes motions for temporary orders, case conferences, settlement conferences, trials, and appeals. We prepare thoroughly, cross-examine effectively, and advocate persistently.
Why People Choose our Family Law Services in Barrie & Orillia
Deep experience. Three decades of navigating Ontario family law means we’ve encountered virtually every scenario and know effective strategies.
Practical guidance. We explain legal concepts in understandable language and provide realistic assessments of your situation and options.
Settlement focus. Litigation drains finances and emotions. We pursue negotiated resolutions aggressively while remaining courtroom-ready.
Regional knowledge. Familiarity with local courts, judges, and procedures throughout Simcoe County benefits case outcomes.
Legal Services In Family Law
We have several offices conveniently located in the heart of each city located across the GTA
Custody and Access
“Custody” refers to parental decision-making in relation to children in four major areas: health, religion, education, and major recreational activities. Custody can take several forms: Sole custody, where one parent is responsible for all decision-making; Joint custody, where parents make decisions jointly or through parallel parenting, wherein one parent is responsible for some decisions (e.g. […]
Disclosure and Failure to Disclose Assets
The importance of full and frank financial disclosure cannot be understated: it is the cornerstone of financial issues in family law. Parties are required to provide all financial disclosure openly and honestly during negotiations, mediation, arbitration, or litigation. Courts do not look kindly upon people who hide, deplete, or fail to disclose assets in order […]
Enforcement of Orders
For many, having a court order in hand finalizes the underlying issues of a family law matter. Unfortunately, in some circumstances court orders are disobeyed or disregarded. Custody and access orders that are not being followed could give rise to the offender being held in contempt. A contempt finding may result in fines or imprisonment. […]
Equalization of Net Family Property and Property Division for Married Spouses
This applies only to married parties. In Ontario, marriage is treated like a business partnership. When the marriage ends, the assets accumulated during that partnership are subject to a process called “equalization.” Equalization attempts to ensure the assets are reviewed so that each party leaves the marriage on equal financial footing. Generally speaking and following the exchange of full and frank financial disclosure, both parties calculate and compare the growth in their respective net worth from the date of marriage to the date of separation. The individual with a higher net worth must give to their estranged spouse one half of the difference so that the parties are in an equal financial position in the context of the relationship.
Grandparents’ Rights
Under some circumstances, grandparents can apply to a court for custody, access, and/or child support for a child (in cases such as if a parent dies, is unavailable, is an incredibly poor caregiver, or if the grandparents previously cared for the child and their access was cut off). It is most common for a court […]
High Value and Complex Assets and Income Streams
Complex income streams and assets comprised of partly or wholly owned corporations, employee stock options, offshore holdings, securities, trusts, pensions and so forth, can add a layer of complexity to a family law matter. Understanding how to deal with these assets and incomes in a family law context can be difficult, particularly considering the financial […]
Independent Legal Advice
When you’re ready to sign a domestic contract, like a separation or cohabitation agreement, you might feel worn out from negotiations and disclosures. However, rushing to sign can lead to issues. After investing time and effort, it’s crucial to aim for the best standard in domestic contracts. Independent legal advice is key to achieving this. […]
Joint Venture and Trust Claims
Although common law spouses do not share property in the same way as married spouses, it may still be possible for a common law spouse who accumulated less wealth to make a claim against a common law spouse who accumulated greater wealth over the course of the relationship. Stephen Durbin and Associates can help clarify […]
Maintaining Child Support and Section 7 Expenses
Child support are the periodic payments made by separated parents to the other parent, for the day-to-day expenses associated with raising children. The Federal Child Support Guidelines require monthly child support payments from any parent whose children spend more than 60% of their time with the other parent. In matters where the children spend roughly […]
Marital Fraud
Marital Fraud: If your spouse deceived you as to his or her identity or marital status (i.e., that he/she was actually married) when he/she married you, you may have grounds to dissolve your marriage and seek an annulment as opposed to a divorce. An annulment and a divorce are two distinct legal concepts. An annulment […]
Mobility
A mobility issue arises where one parent wishes to move to a distant, new residence with the children. This is among the most complex issues in family law, given that relocation will inevitably affect the non-relocating parent’s access rights. In determining whether to allow a parent to relocate, a multi-factor analysis is applied to many […]
Same-Sex couples
The dissolution of a marriage or common law relationship between same-sex parties is treated identically to that of an opposite-sex couple. Under s.2 (1) of the Divorce Act, the definition of spouse is “either of two persons who are married to each other,” but “spouse” can have other meanings in family law. The definition of […]
Spousal Support
Following separation, one party of a married or common law couple may be required to provide financial assistance to the other party by paying spousal support. Depending on the situation, the purpose of spousal support may take different forms, including helping ease the transition of the lower-earning spouse into a life of greater independence; providing […]
Variation of agreements and orders
It is common in family law for the terms of a separation agreement or a final order to need to be changed at some point. A variation in an order is appropriate where there has been what is known as a “material change” in circumstances (and had that change been known at the time the […]
Guiding You Through Divorce & Family Matters – Simple, Steady Process
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Mediation first, when appropriate: We explore settlement options before litigation, pursuing cost-effective resolutions when parties negotiate reasonably.
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Equalization of property: Financial disclosure leads to net family property calculations and equalization payment determinations under Ontario law.
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Full financial disclosure: Complete transparency is mandatory. Concealment creates liability and undermines credibility with courts.
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Separation agreements by consent: Most cases settle. We negotiate agreements protecting your interests while achieving practical compromises.
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Litigation as a last resort: When settlement proves impossible, we proceed to court with meticulous preparation and forceful advocacy.
What Our Clients Say
“Choosing SDA was the best decision we made. Their team truly cares about their clients.”
Noah
Stephen and his team helped my parents settle their divorce ammicably after 20 years of separation! I am glad I didn’t have to mediate or take sides – really appreciate all the hard work that was put into my family’s situation and that we can all put it behind us.
I contacted Stephen some time ago with a problem I was having with my business. My landlord wanted to buy me out of my lease. Business was pretty bad anyway so I was almost willing to take a very small amount that he offered $68,000 (all numbers expressed here are in current value dollar amounts).
Mariusz Cnota
I have the honor to express my deepest admiration for the work and exceptional professionalism of Stephen Durbin. He is not only a brilliant lawyer but also a person of impeccable reputation, remarkable intelligence, and a rare sense of justice.
Stephen Durbin embodies the qualities that distinguish true masters of their profession: outstanding competence, strategic thinking, impeccable tact, and genuine respect for every individual. His approach to every case is thoughtful, precise, and rooted in a profound understanding of the law. He has a remarkable ability to identify the essence of even the most complex legal situations, make balanced decisions, and defend his position with dignity and strength. Thanks to his professionalism and dedication, many people have received not only legal protection but also restored confidence in justice.
Stephen Durbin is a lawyer you can trust without hesitation. His name has become a symbol of reliability, intelligence, and the highest standards of legal excellence.
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Craig
My initial consult went very well. Lisa took extra time to listen to the merits of my case, offered me meaningful short and long-term advice and gave me the confidence to proceed with SDA for my family law needs.
Annette
I had Stephen Durbin represent me in my family law matter. My matter was a bit harder because my ex lived out of Province and I had no contact with him for many years.
If you are looking for top-quality representation – then Stephen Durbin & Associates is right where you need to be. From day one they gave me peace of mind during a very difficult time in my life. When I had met briefly with Stephen during my consultation, I was told that I could trust them to take care of me with my family law matter. Nazifa Islam and her team – Hope and Chyvonne – were extremely professional, efficient, and completely transparent throughout the entire process. I needed someone attentive. I needed someone to advocate for me and my son. I needed this team – and they exceeded my expectations! They went above and beyond for me and not once made me feel like I was just another “File Number” to them. They were always available when I had questions or concerns, and truly made me feel at ease. Nazifa was brilliant and very knowledgeable; I was lucky to have her by my side. She advised me through my separation agreement, always pursuing not just what I wanted but what was in the best interests of me and my son. The outcome was in my favour. Stephen Durbin & Associates gave me a voice when I felt silenced. Worth every single dime!! I highly recommend.
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George
What a difference an experienced lawyer does make. With Stephen, It was a legal experience, but it was also therapeutic in some ways because he seemed to know exactly what I was going through and his confidence gave me confidence through the process. Can’t thank him enough. It’s great to move on.
Nancy
Stephen is my go-to lawyer during difficult times. His knowledge, wisdom, and expertise is simply unparalleled. He puts you right at ease and knows exactly how to handle any situation. Thank you for all your help.
Divorce in Barrie & Orillia: What to Expect & Family Law FAQs
Collect financial records: recent tax returns, pay stubs, statements for all accounts, property valuations, and pension statements. Include court documents, existing agreements, and a written chronology of key events.
Legal fees depend on case complexity and lawyer experience. Typical hourly rates range from $ 300 to $600+. Simple uncontested divorces cost substantially less than lengthy contested litigation. We provide clear fee structures at consultation.
Rule 13 mandates complete financial disclosure through sworn Financial Statements and supporting documents. Required materials include tax returns, pay stubs, bank statements, investment records, property valuations, and pension information. Non-compliance risks court-ordered disclosure, cost awards, or adverse inferences that could damage your case.
Courts prioritize children’s best interests by considering: existing routines and stability, each parent’s ability to meet the child’s physical and emotional needs, the quality of parent-child relationships, willingness to facilitate the other parent’s involvement, any history of family violence, and age-appropriate child preferences. Past caregiving patterns carry significant weight in decisions.
Ontario requires one year of separation before a divorce is granted, unless grounds of adultery or cruelty apply. You can file divorce papers before the year ends, but the court won’t finalize until 12 months of separation are complete. Separation means living apart with at least one spouse, intending the separation to be permanent.
Bad faith involves dishonesty or unfair tactics, such as hiding assets, providing false financial information, deliberately delaying proceedings, using children as leverage, violating court orders, or abusing process to increase the other party’s costs. Courts penalize bad faith through cost orders, adverse inferences, or even striking pleadings.
Speak With a Barrie or Orillia Family Lawyer Today
Serving Barrie, Orillia, Innisfil, and throughout Simcoe County, Stephen Durbin & Associates provides experienced family law representation when you need it most. Call us at 1-855-694-5222 to schedule a confidential consultation with divorce lawyers who understand local courts and deliver results. Whether you’re facing custody disputes, property division, or support negotiations, our team provides the strategic guidance and forceful advocacy your case demands.
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Locations
Locations Near You in the GTA
We have several offices conveniently located in the heart of each city located across the GTA
1-855-694-5222