The rights of grandparents to see grandchildren after a divorce

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 […]

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Remember to keep safety in mind this Canada Day long weekend

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

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Understanding the differences in workplace insurance policies

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

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Be careful about what you say or post – it could land you in court

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

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People who mislead police could be charged with public mischief

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

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Important to recognize challenges faced by the LGBTQ+ community

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,

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It is important to act expeditiously when filing a lawsuit

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

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My spouse has asked for a divorce. How do I handle that?

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

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It’s time to hit the pool but remember to make safety a priority

For many, a swimming pool has the ability to turn their backyards into an oasis.  It can help bring people together for parties or family celebrations and provides a low-impact, yet effective workout. Simply sitting by a swimming pool can also  help alleviate stress and improve your mental well-being. However, a swimming pool comes with

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Large fines can be given with corporate fraud convictions

By LegalMatters Staff • Senior officers with corporations could be given a 14-year prison sentence if they were involved in corporate fraud worth more than $5,000. The same maximum penalty also applies if that fraudulent action affects the public market price of stocks, shares, merchandise or anything offered for sale to the public. “Since corporations

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