By LegalMatters Staff • Canada’s age of consent is when a young person can be engaged in sexual activity, ranging from intimate kissing and fondling to sexual intercourse. The Criminal Code states that consent is the “voluntary agreement of the complainant to engage in the sexual activity in question.” It adds that consent cannot be […]
The age of consent is 16 – but there are some exceptions Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • London Drugs had to close nearly 80 stores across B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba after a ransomware attack in April 2023. According to the National Cyber Threat Assessment 2023-2024 published by the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security (CCCS), ransomware is a persistent threat to Canadian organizations. “During a ransomware attack, malicious
Ransomware a growing problem for Canadian organizations Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • Most grandparents love to see their grandchildren. But if the children’s parents divorce, grandparents may find they are not welcome to continue these visits. “Alberta’s Family Law Act sets out the rules on guardianship, parenting and contact rights pertaining to children,” says Edmonton family lawyer Emily Gore. “Nothing in the Act
The rights of grandparents to see grandchildren after a divorce Read More »
Another long weekend is upon us and, for many, fireworks will feature prominently this Canada Day. Pyrotechnic displays have been around in this country for as long as we have been a nation. On July 1, 1867, there were fireworks, military displays and cathedral bells ringing to celebrate Confederation. The following year, Governor General Lord
Remember to keep safety in mind this Canada Day long weekend Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • Employees need to be aware of the differences and implications of being covered under a health and welfare trust (HWT) as opposed to a traditional workplace insurance policy, says trauma-informed long-term disability and insurance lawyer Leanne Goldstein. “Although some may not have heard of them, HWTs have been around
Understanding the differences in workplace insurance policies Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • Potential whistleblowers and those considering making derogatory public statements at the end of an employment relationship should choose their words carefully or risk a defamation lawsuit, says Toronto employment lawyer Ellen Low. Low, principal of Ellen Low & Co., says there are cases where people feel the need to
Be careful about what you say or post – it could land you in court Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • People who give false information to investigators that causes them to launch an investigation could be charged with public mischief since they are wasting police resources. “Common examples of public mischief include making false domestic or sexual assault allegations,” says Calgary criminal lawyer Vince Semenuk. “This sometimes happens when couples are
People who mislead police could be charged with public mischief Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • While society has made tremendous strides in recognizing the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, more needs to be done to help those suffering from functional health problems, mental health issues and substance abuse, says Ontario disability insurance lawyer Courtney Mulqueen. Mulqueen, principal lawyer of Mulqueen Disability Law Professional Corporation,
Important to recognize challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community Read More »
By Tony Poland, LegalMatters Staff • A recent Superior Court of Justice decision dismissing a long-term disability (LTD) claim because it fell outside the limitation period is an important reminder to act expeditiously when filing a lawsuit, says Barrie-area litigator M. Steven Rastin. “The message here is don’t wait to issue a claim. When it
It is important to act expeditiously when filing a lawsuit Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • Some people are caught by surprise when their spouse announces they want a divorce and may not know what to do next. Edmonton family lawyer Jaskiran Bajwa regularly deals with people in this situation and says staying calm is important. “Getting angry will not help the situation,” she says. “You both
My spouse has asked for a divorce. How do I handle that? Read More »
