When Do You Need a Property Division Lawyer?
You may need a property division lawyer if you’re going through a divorce or separation and there are disputes about how to divide assets. These lawyers practice in the area of family law that handles the division of assets between spouses or partners.
If the division of property is complex due to high net worth, businesses, real estate, or other valuable assets, hiring a property division attorney can be particularly beneficial. In addition, if you suspect your partner is hiding assets or not being forthright about their financial situation, a property division lawyer can help uncover the truth.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Property Division Lawyer in Canada?
The cost of hiring a property division lawyer in Canada can vary greatly based on several factors. These include the lawyer’s experience and reputation, the complexity of the case, and the geographical location.
On average, family lawyers in Canada charge between CAD 200 and CAD 600 per hour. However, in larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver, the rates can be higher. Some lawyers may also work on a flat fee basis for certain services.
Most lawyers require a retainer, an upfront payment that they draw from as they work on your case. The amount of the retainer can range from a few thousand dollars to much more, depending on the anticipated complexity of your case.
Keep in mind that in addition to hourly rates, there may be other costs, such as court fees, costs for expert witnesses, and administrative costs. It’s important to discuss all potential costs with your lawyer before hiring them.
What to Look For in a Property Division Lawyer?
When looking for a property division lawyer, consider their experience in family law and, specifically, property division. Look for a lawyer who has a good reputation and positive client reviews. It’s also important to find a lawyer who communicates clearly and promptly and who you feel comfortable with, as you may be sharing sensitive and personal information.
How to Prepare for Your Consultation With a Property Division Lawyer?
Before your consultation with a property division lawyer:
- Gather all relevant documents such as financial statements, property deeds, and prenuptial or postnuptial agreements if they exist.
- Make a list of all the assets and debts that you and your spouse or partner share.
- Be prepared to discuss your financial situation and goals for property division.
- Gather any documents that prove the separate nature of these assets. Not all property is subject to division in a divorce. Property that you owned prior to the marriage or received as a gift or inheritance during the marriage may be considered separate property.
- While you don’t need to have exact numbers, it’s beneficial to have a general idea of the value of your shared assets, such as real estate, vehicles, retirement accounts, and personal property.
- If there are significant financial transactions that occurred during the marriage or separation, like large purchases or sales, make sure to document these.
- Try to get copies of your joint or individual tax returns for the past three to five years. Tax returns can provide a comprehensive overview of your financial situation.
- Write down a brief history of your marriage. This might include when and where you got married, the duration of the marriage, children, and any events that might be relevant to the property division, such as periods of separation, infidelity, etc.
It can also be helpful to prepare questions about the lawyer’s experience, approach to property division, and fees.
Where to Find the Best Property Division Lawyers in Canada?
LegalMatch is a reputable online service that matches clients with attorneys based on the specifics of their case and location. To find the best property division lawyer in Canada through LegalMatch, visit our website and fill out the form detailing your situation.
LegalMatch will then present your case to experienced lawyers in your area who practice in property division law. The lawyers who are interested and able to handle your case will respond, and you can review their profiles, reviews, and fee structures before deciding who to hire.
