FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Family law raises a lot of questions. Below are the questions we hear most often. If you do not see yours here, reach out directly and we will give you a clear answer.
Working With Third Street Law
Do you offer free consultations?
We do not. Our consultations are paid, structured sessions, and you can book a one-hour or two-hour meeting depending on the complexity of your situation.
Some clients book a consultation with no intention of retaining a lawyer for ongoing work—they simply want clear, definitive family law advice tailored to their situation so they can make an informed decision on what to do next. That is a valuable way to start, and it is often the most useful hour someone spends at the beginning of a family transition.
What happens after I contact you?
One of our team members will connect with you first to learn about your situation, answer initial process questions, and run a conflict check. During this initial contact, our team member will help direct you toward the right path and dispute resolution process for your matter. From there, we schedule your initial consultation to begin moving your file forward.
Do you handle anything other than family law?
No. Third Street Law practices exclusively in family law. We do not handle real estate, wills and estates, corporate law, or criminal matters.
If you contact us with a legal issue outside our scope, we will refer you to trusted counsel rather than take on work outside our core expertise. Our singular focus is deliberate: it ensures every client receives deep, specialized family law guidance.
How much will this cost?
Total costs depend on the complexity of your file and the dispute resolution process you choose:
- Consultations have a fixed fee.
- Ongoing Representation is billed hourly against a retainer deposit.
- Out-of-Court Dispute Resolution options (such as negotiation, mediation, or arbitration) offer structured, efficient alternatives tailored to your file.
Can we meet virtually, or do I have to come to your office?
Either option works. Our physical office is located in downtown Cobourg, and we welcome in-person meetings.
We are also fully equipped for secure virtual meetings via Zoom, Teams, or phone. Distance or scheduling challenges never need to be a barrier to working with our firm.
Where are your clients located?
We are based in Cobourg and regularly represent clients across Northumberland County, Durham Region, and Hastings & Prince Edward Counties, with virtual services available throughout Ontario. Court appearances or proceedings requiring travel are a standard part of how we practice.
What should I bring to my first consultation?
When booking your consultation, our law clerk will let you know exactly what to bring beyond standard photo identification. Depending on your situation, this may include existing court orders, agreements, or key financial records. If you do not have everything gathered beforehand, do not worry—we can work with what you have and provide a clear list of what to collect next.
Common Family Law Questions
Do I have to go to court to resolve a family law matter?
No. Court is one path available, but many matters are successfully resolved out of court through strategic negotiation, domestic contracts, mediation, arbitration, or med-arb. Litigation remains an important path when an agreement cannot be reached out of court, when urgent court orders are required, or when formal judicial resolution is needed. During your initial contact and consultation, we help you evaluate which path best fits your circumstances.
What is the difference between Mediation, Arbitration, and Med-Arb?
- Mediation: A voluntary, collaborative process where our neutral mediator guides discussions to help both parties reach a mutually acceptable agreement.
- Arbitration: An efficient out-of-court process where our arbitrator hears both sides and issues a binding arbitration award or determination.
- Med-Arb: A hybrid process that starts with mediation to resolve as many issues as possible, transitioning seamlessly into arbitration for a final, binding determination on any remaining unresolved points.
We agree on everything. Do I still need a lawyer?
Even if you and your spouse agree on all terms, you may still require a formal, legally binding separation agreement to divide assets and debts, facilitate mortgage renegotiations, or satisfy real estate transaction requirements.
A comprehensive separation agreement can be mediated with the support of our neutral mediator or negotiated with the guidance of any of our family law lawyers. Obtaining Independent Legal Advice (ILA) on a finalized draft ensures you fully understand your rights and obligations before signing, guaranteeing the agreement is durable and legally enforceable.
How long will my matter take?
Timelines depend on the process chosen and the degree of complexity involved:
- Separation Agreements negotiated through lawyers or drafted following mediation can often be finalized within weeks or a few months.
- Mediation and Arbitration processes are often completed within two to three months.
- Litigation timelines depend on court scheduling, procedural steps, and whether a full trial or appeal is required.
We give you realistic timeline expectations based on your specific situation rather than overly optimistic estimates.
What if my situation changes after an agreement or court order is in place?
Agreements and court orders regarding parenting arrangements or financial support can often be updated when there is a material change in circumstances—such as a significant change in income, a relocation, or evolving child needs.
Whether a variation is possible depends on the specific wording of your agreement or order and the nature of the change. If your circumstances have shifted, we can review your existing terms and advise you on your options.
Are there legal deadlines I need to be aware of?
Yes. Certain family law claims in Ontario—including property division claims between married spouses and statutory claims—are subject to strict limitation periods. Waiting too long can permanently affect your legal options and entitlements.
This is a primary reason to seek specialized legal advice early, even if you are not yet ready to make final decisions.
Ready to discuss your situation?
Reach out to schedule an initial consultation with our team. We will review your file, explain your options plainly, and help you determine the best path forward.