What Is Family Law?

Family law is the broad area of law that covers marriage, divorce, child custody, spousal and child support, parenting, adoption, domestic violence, reproductive rights, and other matters concerning family relationships. Family law originates in English common law traditions surrounding marriage and the family unit. Modern family law has expanded far beyond its common law roots, and is governed today by an array of federal and provincial statutes and the judicial decisions which apply and interpret them. In Saskatchewan, family law cases are typically decided in the Court of King’s Bench, Family Law Division.

Separating from a relationship often brings up family law issues whether or not the couple was married, especially if there is a child involved. Family law applies to same-sex relationships in the same manner as it does to opposite-sex relationships. What follows is an introduction to this frequently-encountered area of law, and to the most commonly encountered problems, and solutions.

Note: The information in this blog is not legal advice. Consult a lawyer for advice for your situation.