A social worker from Nova Scotia Child Protective Services called me. Are my children going to be taken away from me?

/ Highlander Law Group/
A social worker from Nova Scotia Child Protective Services called me. Are my children going to be taken away from me?

It can be scary for a parent to get a call from child protection workers, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that the children are going to be taken away. In Nova Scotia, child protection is part of the Department of Opportunities Social Development, and is often referred to as CPS, though some people will also use the acronym CAS, which is short for Children’s Aid Society, which is the name used in Ontario.

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How to resolve issues that arise on closing day walk-through for a property transaction in Nova Scotia.

/ Highlander Law Group/
How to resolve issues that arise on closing day walk-through for a property transaction in Nova Scotia.

On closing day in Nova Scotia, the buyer is entitled to do a pre-closing inspection, "walk-through" to confirm that they are satisfied with the condition of the property now that the seller has moved all of their things out. What happens if the buyer is NOT happy?

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How do I make sure that my ex pays the support they agreed to pay in our separation agreement?

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How do I make sure that my ex pays the support they agreed to pay in our separation agreement?

The easiest way to make sure that support is paid is to register your agreement with the court. Under the Parenting and Support Act, you can register a signed separation agreement with the court.

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Social workers from Nova Scotia child protection took away my children. What do I do now? How do I get my kids back?

/ Highlander Law Group/
Social workers from Nova Scotia child protection took away my children. What do I do now? How do I get my kids back?

Having your children removed from your home can be very scary for everyone involved. While it is normal to be emotional, the best thing you can do if this happens to you is to reach out for help, and ask questions, in as calm and polite a manner as you can.

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Why Do I Have to Hire a Lawyer to Buy or Sell Land in Nova Scotia?

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Why Do I Have to Hire a Lawyer to Buy or Sell Land in Nova Scotia?

We regularly help clients from other provinces in Canada and even other countries, buy and sell land in Nova Scotia. Often the clients are frustrated with the process and in particular the idea that they even need to hire an actual lawyer to complete the transaction.  I find myself thinking, “You’re not in Kansas anymore.”

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When am I considered to be in a “common law” marriage in Nova Scotia?

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When am I considered to be in a “common law” marriage in Nova Scotia?

In Nova Scotia, the definition of “common law marriage” is different depending on why the designation is needed.

For example, for income tax purposes, the CRA defines a common law partners as any couple who are not legally married, but have been living together for at least 12 months, or are living together and have a child together.

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My ex wants me to sign a separation agreement in Nova Scotia. What information should I get before I sign it?

/ Highlander Law Group/
My ex wants me to sign a separation agreement in Nova Scotia. What information should I get before I sign it?

If you’ve separated from your spouse or common law partner in Nova Scotia, a separation agreement is the easiest way to deal with all of the financial parts of separating, especially if you can agree on the terms. Your bank will also likely require a formal separation agreement, with independent legal advice before allowing you to remortgage your home.

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I’m in a common law marriage in Nova Scotia. Can I sign a prenup even if we never get legally married?

/ Highlander Law Group/
I’m in a common law marriage in Nova Scotia. Can I sign a prenup even if we never get legally married?

A “prenup” (or prenuptial agreement) is a form of marriage contract, usually signed prior to getting married, and in anticipation of getting married in the future. However, a marriage contract can also be signed after the marriage, and a version of this type agreement, called a “cohabitation agreement” can be signed by any couple either in anticipation of living together, or after they have already started living together. Whether or not they ever plan to get married.

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7 questions to ask when choosing a lawyer in Nova Scotia for your Real Estate Purchase or Sale

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7 questions to ask when choosing a lawyer in Nova Scotia for your Real Estate Purchase or Sale

The Purchase and Sale Agreement is signed. Your Realtor says you need a lawyer for the next step  but of course you don’t ‘have a lawyer’. How do you figure out which lawyer to hire?

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How Do I Register and Enforce an out of province Order or Judgment in Nova Scotia?

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How Do I Register and Enforce an out of province Order or Judgment in Nova Scotia?

Judgment Orders from other jurisdictions (like other Provinces or Countries) are not automatically enforceable in Nova Scotia. To enforce the Order, you first must have the Nova Scotia courts recognize and register it here in Nova Scotia.

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4 Tips to Make Your Property Purchase In Nova Scotia Stress free

/ Highlander Law Group/
4 Tips to Make Your Property Purchase In Nova Scotia Stress free

Buying or selling a home in Nova Scotia can be a stressful and hectic time, especially in the days leading up to and on closing day. Here are 4 helpful tips to consider when making plans.

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