LAWCRESTSeparation and divorce lawyer in Mississauga
Separation is one of the hardest transitions in life. Lawcrest helps individuals and families across Mississauga and the GTA understand their rights, protect their children and finances, and move forward with clear advice, calm guidance and firm representation when it is needed.
Decisions made in the first weeks, such as moving out or signing documents, can affect your finances and your children. Get advice early.
416-830-3369A fair path through separation
Separation and divorce involve legal questions about your children, your home, your finances and your future. The rules differ depending on whether you are married or in a common-law relationship.
Most families do best when they understand their rights early, keep communication respectful and aim for a fair agreement. When that is not possible, we are ready to represent you.
We explain each step in plain language, protect your interests and your children, and work toward a resolution that lets you move forward.
- Married spousesSeparation, divorce, property and support.
- Common-law partnersDifferent rules apply, and we explain them.
- ParentsPlanning for children during and after separation.
How we help
If your situation is not listed, call us. We will tell you plainly how we can help.
Separation advice
Understanding your rights and options before you decide what to do.
Separation agreements
Written agreements that settle property, support and parenting.
Uncontested divorce
Simple, joint or agreed applications for divorce.
Contested divorce
Representation where the issues cannot be agreed.
Property and debt division
Dividing assets, pensions, businesses and debts fairly.
The matrimonial home
Rights to live in and sell the family home.
Common-law separations
Rights and claims for unmarried partners.
Mediation and collaborative law
Resolving issues without a court fight.
When should you speak to a lawyer?
Early advice helps you avoid costly mistakes. Contact us if any of these sound familiar.
- You are thinking about separatingUnderstand your rights before you act.
- Your spouse has already left or asked you to leaveMoving out can affect your position.
- You have been served with court papersDeadlines to respond can be short.
- You are asked to sign an agreementReview it before you sign.
- You are worried about children, money or safetyUrgent steps may be needed.
- You want a divorceWe explain the grounds and the process.
What gets divided
For married couples, the law sets rules for dividing what you built together. We explain how they apply to your situation.
- Net family propertyThe growth in each spouse net worth during the marriage, which is shared through an equalization payment.
- The matrimonial homeBoth spouses generally have equal rights to live in it, whoever owns it.
- Pensions and retirement savingsOften a major asset that needs careful valuation.
- Businesses and investmentsMay need an expert valuation.
- DebtsDebts can be shared or allocated as part of the settlement.
- Excluded propertySome items, such as certain gifts and inheritances, may be treated differently.
Ways to resolve your separation
There is more than one path. We explain each, including time and cost, so you can choose with confidence.
NegotiationOften the first step
Lawyers or the parties discuss the issues and aim to reach agreement, which is usually the fastest and cheapest path.
Separation agreementA binding written agreement
Records what you agreed about property, support and parenting. It must be in writing, signed and witnessed, and each person should get independent advice.
MediationA neutral helps you agree
A mediator helps you reach a voluntary agreement. It is confidential and often much quicker than court.
Collaborative lawAgreement without court
Each side has a lawyer, and everyone commits to resolving the matter without going to court.
Court applicationWhen agreement is not possible
A judge decides the issues. We prepare the case, handle the process and represent you at each stage.
How we work with you
A clear process, with no surprises about where your matter stands.
Consultation
You tell us about your situation. We listen, ask the right questions and explain your rights in plain language.
Gather information
We identify your assets, debts, income and parenting needs, and what documents are required.
Strategy
We recommend the best route for your family and explain the likely time and cost.
Negotiate
We work to reach a fair agreement with the other side wherever possible.
Agreement or court
We prepare a separation agreement, or start a court case if that is necessary.
Finalize
We complete the divorce or agreement, and make sure the terms are carried out.
Safety comes first
If you or your children are in danger, call 911. If you are experiencing abuse or controlling behaviour, tell us. There are urgent steps and protections we can discuss with you.
Your safety also matters for the decisions you make about moving out, parenting and what you share. We handle these matters with care and in confidence.
How we price our work
We discuss costs at the start, so you can plan and decide with confidence.
Initial adviceFirst step
A clear explanation of your rights and options, and of the likely path ahead.
Separation agreementNegotiated settlement
Negotiating and preparing a separation agreement, with independent legal advice for each person.
Uncontested divorceAgreed issues
Preparing and filing the application where the issues are agreed.
Contested mattersIf agreement is not possible
Court applications and representation, from the first filing to trial or settlement.
Mediation supportAlongside the process
Advice and preparation for mediation, and review of any agreement reached.
What to bring to your consultation
Do not worry if you do not have everything. Bring what you can, and we will tell you what else is useful.
- Government-issued photo ID
- Your marriage certificate and the date of separation
- Recent income documents, such as tax returns and pay stubs
- Statements for bank accounts, investments, pensions and debts
- Details of any property, vehicles and a business you own
- Any agreements, court papers or letters you have received
Why clients choose Lawcrest
You are trusting us at an important and personal time. This is how we earn that trust.
Plain-language advice
No jargon. You understand each step and each choice before we act.
Cost clarity
We discuss our fees at the start so you can plan with full information.
Compassionate and discreet
We handle your family matter with care and respect.
Confidential
What you tell us is protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Responsive
Your questions get answers, and you hear from us as your matter moves.
Practical approach
We look for the quickest route to a fair, workable result, and we do not escalate for its own sake.
Regulated lawyers
Lawcrest is a professional corporation regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.
Local and accessible
Meet us at our Matheson Blvd office in Mississauga, or arrange a call.
Frequently asked questions
Still not sure? Call 416-830-3369 and we will talk it through.
How does divorce work in Ontario?
You must show the marriage has broken down, most commonly because you have lived separate and apart for a year. You can apply together or alone. The divorce usually takes effect a month after the court grants it.
Do I have to be separated for a year first?
Usually, unless there is adultery or cruelty. You can live separate and apart under the same roof in some cases, and short reconciliation attempts do not always reset the period.
How is property divided?
For married spouses, the growth in each person net worth during the marriage is generally equalized, with some exceptions. Unmarried couples have different rules, so we explain what applies to you.
What about the family home?
Both spouses generally have equal rights to possess the matrimonial home, whoever owns it. A spouse usually cannot sell it without the other consent.
What if we are common-law?
Common-law partners have different property rules, but can claim support and may have other claims. We explain your rights.
How long does it take?
It depends on whether you agree. Agreed matters can take a few months, while contested cases can take much longer. We give a realistic timeline.
Do I need a lawyer to get a divorce?
No, but a lawyer helps protect your rights, avoid mistakes in forms and agreements, and handle disagreements.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Your communications with us are protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Testimonials
They made a complicated legal matter feel understandable. We always knew what was happening, why it mattered and what came next.
Carolean
Worker
We always knew what was happening, why it mattered and what came next. They made a complicated legal matter feel understandable.
Elena
Founder of a company
Lawcrest
@2026