DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW SERVICES
​
Navigating family law matters can be emotionally challenging and legally complex. Our dedicated team is here to provide compassionate support and expert guidance across a range of family law services. Isaac Paonessa is called to the bar in Ontario, and he understands that divorce and family law cases are challenging for many reasons. That's why he's committed to providing the residents of Middlesex, Elgin, Lambton, Perth, and Oxford Counties with compassionate advice and conscientious service that is responsive to their needs.
He is here to help on the full range of matters, including divorce, child custody and access, spousal support, and complex property division where millions $ are at stake.
​
He represents separating spouses in amicable negotiations, mediation and arbitration, binding judicial dispute resolution, or court proceedings through motions, trial, and appeal.
He will listen to your concerns and provide you with the compassionate guidance and representation you deserve.
​​
Divorce and Separation
Understanding the intricacies of divorce and separation is crucial. We assist with the legal dissolution of marriages, ensuring that all aspects—from asset division to support arrangements—are handled with care and precision. Our approach aims to minimize conflict wherever possible and promote cooperative decision-making.
Spousal Support (Alimony)
Determining fair spousal support is essential for financial stability post-separation. We work diligently to establish equitable support agreements, considering factors like income, length of the marriage, and individual needs. Our goal is to ensure that support arrangements are fair and sustainable for both parties.
Decision Making Responsibility and Parenting Time (Formerly “custody” and “access”)
The well-being of your children is paramount. We strive to develop Decision making responsibility and parenting time arrangements that serve the best interests of the child and the bond that parents have with their children, fostering healthy and supportive family dynamics. Our team is committed to creating parenting plans that reflect your family's unique circumstances and promote stability for your children.
Child Support (and Special Expenses)
Ensuring that children receive appropriate financial support is a key concern. We help calculate and negotiate child support payments in line with legal guidelines and the specific circumstances of your family. Our aim is to secure fair support that meets your children's needs and upholds their standard of living.
Property Division (Equalization)
You have worked hard for what you have, and you deserve to have it protected. This is even more important for those who have already gone through a separation or divorce and their property was divided up from that prior relationship.
Equitable distribution of marital assets is a critical component of separation. We guide you through the division process, addressing complex issues such as business valuations, pension valuations, and shared real estate properties. Our objective is to achieve a fair division that focuses on your contributions and future financial security.
Valuation of Assets
Accurate valuation of assets like pensions and real estate is vital for fair property division.
Pensions are often significant marital assets. Ontario law provides a process for valuing and dividing pensions upon marriage or relationship breakdown. We assist in obtaining the Family Law Value of pensions, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and fair distribution.
Real estate, including the matrimonial home, requires precise valuation. We collaborate with qualified appraisers to determine current market values, ensuring that property division reflects true worth and aligns with equitable distribution principles.
Tax Considerations
Understanding the tax implications of family law decisions is crucial. We are tax conscious during your matter and can assist you in applying to CRA for tax credits on pursuing certain family law matter.
Spousal support payments are generally tax-deductible for the payer and taxable for the recipient. This tax treatment affects both parties' financial planning and should be carefully considered when negotiating support terms.
Child support payments are typically not tax-deductible for the payer nor taxable for the recipient. This distinction is important in financial planning post-separation.
Transferring assets like the matrimonial home or investments can have tax implications. We provide guidance to minimize tax liabilities during property division.
Domestic Contracts
Clear agreements can prevent future disputes. We assist in drafting and reviewing cohabitation agreements, marriage contracts (prenuptial agreements), and separation agreements to protect your interests. Our focus is on creating comprehensive contracts that provide clarity and security for all parties involved.
Alternative Dispute Resolution
Litigation isn't the only path. We offer mediation and arbitration services to help resolve disputes amicably, saving time and reducing stress. Our experienced mediators facilitate open communication, aiming for mutually beneficial solutions that preserve relationships.
Family Responsibility Office (FRO) Default Proceedings
Enforcing support payments is vital. We represent clients in FRO default proceedings to ensure compliance with support orders and address any enforcement issues. Our team works diligently to resolve payment disputes efficiently, safeguarding your financial well-being.
Litigation and Trial Representation
When court intervention becomes necessary, our experienced litigators advocate vigorously on your behalf in court proceedings. We are committed to protecting your rights and interests throughout the legal process. We are experienced in all types of divorce litigation from the first step in a case through special appointment motions, focused hearings and trials if necessary.
​
At every step, we prioritize your unique needs, offering personalized legal strategies to help you navigate divorce and family law challenges with confidence and care.
​