Ottawa Family Law Services

Expert Guidance and Support

At Odette Rwigamba Lawyers, we understand that family matters are often both emotionally complex and legally challenging. Whether you’re dealing with separation, child custody, or financial support, our family law experts are here to provide the guidance and support you need throughout the process.

Prioritizing Your Goals

With over 20 years of experience mediating and litigating family law matters in Ontario,  our team offers practical, results-oriented, transformational legal advice to the families we serve. We are dedicated to providing efficient, client-focused solutions that prioritize your goals while minimizing conflict. We also understand the emotional toll that family disputes can take, and we are committed to providing compassionate, personalized guidance every step of the way.

Problems We Resolve:

• Parenting Custody & Access
• Child Support
• Child Protection Matters (CAS)
• Division of Family Property
• Spousal Support
• Variation of previous orders and agreements
• Travel and Mobility
• Separation Agreements
• Marriage contracts
• Restraining Orders
• Legal opinions on foreign divorces
• Uncontested and contested divorce

Our Approaches to Family Law Issues:

• Mediation
• Negotiation
• Litigation (Court action)
• Arbitration
• Trials
• Appeals
• Private settlement meetings

Divorce & Separation

We assist families through contested and uncontested family law matters, helping them to finalize their separation smoothly. A key aspect of separation is creating detailed agreements that address property division, spousal support, and parenting plans if needed. Our team ensures these agreements meet your needs while adhering to applicable laws in Ontario. If you are filing for divorce or need a separation agreement, we will guide you through the steps for a successful resolution. Learn More >

Child Custody & Parenting Plans

Our goal is to help parents develop parenting plans that prioritize the best interests of their children. Legal custody, which involves decision-making authority, and parenting time, which relates to physical access to the child, are essential elements of these plans. We work with families to create practical and sustainable arrangements while also providing legal support in cases where disputes arise over custody and access. Learn More >

Child Support

When it comes to child support, we help parents calculate payments based on the Child Support Guidelines. If changes in financial circumstances occur, we assist in modifying existing support orders to reflect the new reality. Ensuring compliance with child support agreements is also a priority. In cases where enforcement becomes necessary, we work with Ontario’s Family Responsibility Office (FRO) to make sure that payments are made as required. Learn More >

Spousal Support (Alimony)

We provide expert advice on spousal support, helping clients determine eligibility based on income disparities, the length of the relationship, and other relevant factors. Our team negotiates both temporary and long-term support arrangements, ensuring they are fair and appropriate for each situation. If circumstances change over time, we can assist in adjusting existing spousal support orders to reflect the new conditions. Learn More >

Division of Property & Assets

In Ontario, property is divided according to the principle of equalization of net family property, which ensures a fair distribution of assets accumulated during the marriage. We guide clients through the division of family homes, investments, pensions, and business assets. For those seeking to protect personal property or pre-marital assets, we also provide legal advice on prenuptial and cohabitation agreements. Learn More >

Domestic Contracts

Our firm helps clients draft and review a variety of domestic contracts, including cohabitation agreements, marriage contracts (also known as prenuptial agreements), and separation agreements. We ensure these agreements are legally enforceable and tailored to meet your specific needs and circumstances. Whether you are planning for the future or managing a separation, we are here to protect your interests.

Adoption & Guardianship

We assist families with private and step-parent adoptions, ensuring that the legal process is completed smoothly and efficiently. For individuals seeking to become legal guardians of children in need, we provide guidance on guardianship applications, ensuring compliance with Ontario’s legal requirements. Our goal is to help families grow and provide children with the care and support they need.

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)

Not every family law matter requires court intervention. We offer mediation and collaborative family law services to help clients resolve disputes outside of the courtroom. This approach focuses on finding mutually beneficial solutions and promoting long-term cooperation, helping you save time, reduce stress, and avoid unnecessary legal costs.