Family Law Firm Ottawa: Divorce & Family Lawyers You Can Trust

At Stephen Durbin & Associates, we know that resolving family issues can be stressful and emotional. Whether you are going through a separation, a divorce, or have questions about custody and support, you deserve precise advice and caring guidance.located centrally near Parliament Hill and Peace Tower, our team of family lawyers are here to help you move forward with confidence.

As a trusted family law firm, we combine legal knowledge with compassion. We listen to your story, explain your options in plain language, and stand with you every step of the way.

About Our Ottawa Legal Services

We take pride in the dedication and hard work our lawyers bring to every case. Each Stephen Durban & Associates professional is carefully chosen for their strong judgment, proven results, and commitment to giving a personalized experience to our clients in Ottawa. Together, our lawyers work collaboratively, combining years of experience to help clients achieve peace of mind and a secure future.

Our experienced family law lawyers take the time to listen and explain the next steps clearly. We work to reduce the conflict whenever possible, but we will fight for you when it matters the most. Families trust us because we care about people and results.

Our Family Law Services in Ottawa

Ottawa Divorce Lawyer

Our lawyers guide you through the legal process of divorce and related family law matters, protect your rights, and work toward a fair outcome, whether the divorce is uncontested or contested.

Child Custody & Child Support

We help the parents create parenting plans that focus on the best interests of their children and explain Ontario’s support guidelines. We work hard to ensure your voice is heard. Learn more about our child custody and child support services.

Spousal Support

We advise on whether spousal support is owed, how much, and for how long as part of broader family law matters like divorce, separation, and cohabitation agreements. Our focus is on your financial security.

Property Division & Equalization

Dividing property, pensions, or the family home can be difficult. We guide you through Ontario’s equalization rules to help reach a fair division, drawing on our extensive knowledge of family law.

Separation & Cohabitation Agreements

We help prepare clear agreements that protect your future and reduce the chance of conflict later.

Mediation

Going to court is not always the best option, and we encourage mediation, when appropriate, prior to family law litigation to help families reach respectful solutions outside the courtroom.

We also prepare and manage all required paperwork to keep your case moving smoothly. Our team is transparent about fees and explains what is included in our services. We consider the most important factors in every case, such as the best interests of the child, parent–child relationships, and the impact of the marriage on property division and support.

Family Law Litigation

While we encourage resolution through mediation when appropriate, some cases require going to court. Our experienced family law lawyers are well-versed in litigation and can advocate strongly for your rights in child custody, support, or property division disputes. We prepare you thoroughly and guide you through the process with clarity and support.

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Why Work With Us

At Stephen Durbin & Associates, we combine legal skill with a client-first approach. Families trust us because we provide more than legal representation; we provide clarity, support, and results. Here’s what sets us apart:

  1. Results-Driven – Focused on achieving the best possible outcomes.
  2. Culture of Excellence – A team selected for judgment and dedication.
  3. Collaborative Approach – Collective knowledge working for your case.
  4. Compassion & Discretion – Sensitive matters handled with care and respect.
  5. Clear Communication – Plain-language guidance and prompt responses.
  6. Up-to-Date Knowledge – Always current with Ontario family law changes.
  7. Efficient Solutions – Minimizing conflict, cost, and stress wherever possible.
  8. Convenient Location – Located downtown Ottawa near Rideau Canal and ByWard Market District

Guiding You Through Divorce & Family Matters

We simplify the legal process, guiding you step by step through divorce and family matters with clarity, support, and a focus on fair resolutions.

  • Mediation as an Option – Family law in Ontario encourages mediation, when appropriate,  and negotiation before resorting to litigation, as it’s less adversarial and often leads to amicable solutions.
  • Equalization of Net Family Property – Married spouses have a statutory right to equalize net family property upon divorce/separation under Ontario law.
  • Financial Disclosure – Proper, honest financial disclosure is legally required in Ontario family law to ensure fairness in property division and support calculations.
  • Negotiated Separation Agreements – The goal in most divorces is to reach a fair, mutually acceptable separation agreement without prolonged court battles.
  • Litigation as Last Resort – Court litigation may be necessary to protect rights, but it is expensive, time-consuming, and emotionally draining.

Ottawa courthouse exterior

Divorce in Ottawa: What to Expect & Family Law FAQs

In Ottawa, divorces must be filed with the Court,  and arrangements must be made for parenting plans and settling financial matters, such as support and property division. Having an experienced lawyer makes the process smoother and less stressful.

Uncontested cases may take a few months while contested cases often take longer.

Costs depend on the complexity of the case. We explain the fees upfront and do not include any hidden costs.

Custody is based on the best interests of the child, so the Courts look at stability, parenting history, and the child’s needs.

It is not required, but having a lawyer helps prevent mistakes and ensures agreements are enforceable.

No, most cases start with negotiation and court is reserved as a last resort if a fair agreement cannot be reached.

Equalization of net family property is Ontario’s system for dividing property between married spouses. The goal is to fairly split the growth in assets during the marriage.

Ontario law requires both spouses to fully disclose their finances so that property division, child support, and spousal support are transparent and fair.

Speak to an Ottawa Divorce Lawyer Today

If you are facing divorce, custody issues, or any family law concern, you do not have to face it alone. Contact Stephen Durbin & Associates today and speak with one of our caring family lawyers.

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What our clients say

really appreciate all the hard work

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.

5 Star-Rating Icon Noah

THIS CHANGED MY LIFE

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). Stephen told me to leave it in his hands and see what he could do. Little by little he negotiated with the landlord, bringing him up first to $360,000, then to $540,000, then to finally about $810,000! I was shocked that this was the result. But he clearly must know what he’s doing. This changed my life for the better and gave me another chance. I’m very thankful. Read more

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Exceptional Professionalism

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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5 Star-Rating Icon Mariusz Cnota

I NEEDED THIS TEAM

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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What a difference

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.

5 Star-Rating Icon George

My go-to lawyer

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.

5 Star-Rating Icon Nancy