By LegalMatters Staff • The key difference between a divorce and an annulment is that while a divorce terminates a legally valid marriage, an annulment treats the marriage as if it never existed. “When a marriage is annulled, the court will issue a Nullity Decree. It takes effect immediately, declaring that the marriage did not […]
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By LegalMatters Staff • There are many “hidden” charges when buying a home. They vary in size but can add up, which will cause real problems if you are already struggling to make your mortgage payment each month. “If you are putting down less than 20 per cent toward the purchase of a home in
Hidden costs to be aware of when buying a house Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • There are strict regulations that Canadians must follow if they are transporting a firearm to a range or wilderness area in an automobile. The steps involved depend on its classification, with most rifles and shotguns falling into the non-restricted weapon category. “According to the Firearms Act, these weapons must be unloaded
The rules about legally transporting a firearm in Canada Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • A variety of charges can be laid against those involved with child pornography, depending on whether you create the images, distribute them or view them. The Criminal Code defines child pornography as any photo, video or other visual representation that shows someone under 18 either engaged in a sexual activity or
Severe sentences imposed for child pornography convictions Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • Anyone thinking about buying a home should get a home inspection done first. The relatively minor cost ($400 to $600) pays for itself in terms of peace of mind. “A qualified home inspector can help you make an informed decision about what is likely the largest investment you will ever make,”
A home inspection is a great investment for home buyers Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • If you carry a firearm while committing a criminal offence that will be considered an aggravating factor when it comes to sentencing. The possession of a firearm during a crime is punishable by a maximum 14-year prison sentence and it does not matter if no one was harmed or if the
What are the penalties for using a firearm when committing a crime? Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • Police have two options after they arrest someone after a domestic violence complaint. The accused could be asked to sign an undertaking or other promise to appear document for a future court date. They will also be told to move out of the home and not have any contact with the
What to expect after a domestic assault charge is laid Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • Independent from the Alberta government, Children’s Services or Youth Justice, the Office of the Child and Youth Advocate (OCYA) is mandated to provide individual and systemic advocacy for children and youth receiving “designated services” as defined under the Child and Youth Advocate Act. Its clientele includes young people receiving or attempting
The duties of Alberta’s Office of the Child and Youth Advocate Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • Specialty stores known as head shops openly sell drug paraphernalia including rolling papers and water pipes used to smoke cannabis, crack and other drugs. Some have colourful logos, celebrity images or designs such as smiley faces. These businesses operate legally across Canada, but there are limitations, says Ottawa criminal lawyer Céline
Colourful rolling paper, other drug paraphernalia are legal in Canada Read More »
By LegalMatters Staff • While child support payments generally end at 18, some circumstances may obligate parents to provide support beyond the child’s age of majority. “The Alberta Child Support Guidelines list four reasons why child support may have to be paid past the age of 18,” says Edmonton family lawyer Mark Demas. “They are
Post-secondary studies may lengthen child support obligations Read More »
