Johnson Miller Family Lawyers

10/16/2026

As non-married relationships continue to increase across Canada, couples are increasingly navigating complex provincial rules regarding property-division rights. A common misconception is that cohabiting partners share the exact same automatic property rights as married spouses under Ontario law.

Understanding how property division, cohabitation agreements, and provincial laws intersect is essential for protecting your assets and long-term security.

https://ow.ly/M6FG50ZY2LT

As non-married relationships increase, lawyers are advising on the varied provincial rules for property-division rights

10/14/2026

Navigating property division and financial disclosure during a separation can become exceptionally complicated when business assets, corporate benefits, or third-party ownership structures are involved. A recent decision from the Ontario Court of Appeal in Chamseddine v. Ghani highlights how courts evaluate beneficial business ownership, incomplete financial disclosure, and the circumstances under which an unequal division of net family property may be ordered.

To learn more about how courts look beyond formal ownership arrangements and what this means for family law disputes, read our latest blog: https://ow.ly/NJBI50ZXby6

Ontario court addresses hidden business assets, unequal property division, and imputed income.

10/11/2026

Thanksgiving is a reminder to pause, count our blessings, and appreciate the people who make life truly special. Wishing you a peaceful Thanksgiving.

10/10/2026

World Mental Health Day is a reminder that caring for your mind is just as important as caring for your body. Check in on yourself today, reach out to someone you care about, and remember that seeking support is a sign of strength.

10/06/2026

Does separation mean I have to move out? A common misconception is that separation only happens once one person packs their bags.

In Ontario, spouses can legally be "separate and apart" while continuing to live under the same roof for financial or practical reasons, such as for the children. To the court, separation occurs when one or both spouses decide the relationship is over, stop functioning as a couple, and act as though the marriage has ended.

Navigating this takes careful legal strategy. If you are separating but staying in the shared home, we can help ensure the process is clear and legally sound.

📞 (519) 973-1500
🌐 www.johnsonmiller.ca

10/02/2026

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Did you know that individuals aged 40 to 74 can now self-refer for a free mammogram through the Ontario Breast Screening Program (OBSP)? You no longer need a doctor or nurse practitioner's referral to book an appointment. Early detection saves lives, and taking charge of your breast health starts with regular screening.

10/01/2026

For many Windsor-Essex residents, commuting across the Detroit-Windsor border for work is a daily routine. When going through a separation or divorce, earning U.S. income or holding American assets like a 401(k) adds unique complexities to Canadian family law proceedings, including currency conversions, cross-border tax considerations, and support calculation adjustments.

Read our latest blog post to understand how cross-border employment impacts divorce proceedings and property division: https://ow.ly/9lJb50ZT8uM

Learn how Michigan income, taxes, pensions and assets can affect an Ontario divorce for Windsor-Essex spouses who work across the border.

09/30/2026

Today is a dedicated time to reflect on the painful history and ongoing intergenerational impacts of Canada's residential school system. Let us commit to continuous learning and active reconciliation. 🧡

09/29/2026

Connecting with the team outside of the office is always time well spent. The Johnson Miller Family Lawyers team traded the legal desks for the local vineyards, visiting a few fantastic wineries across Windsor-Essex for what we are officially calling our first annual Un-wineding tour.

Supporting families across our community starts with strong collaboration and shared moments behind the scenes. Cheers to our team and to enjoying a great afternoon together.

09/24/2026

It’s often the first question on our clients' minds. While related, 'separation' and 'divorce' mean very different things in Ontario family law.

Separation marks the functional end of a marriage. It begins when you start living separate lives, even under the same roof. This is when parenting schedules, support, and property division are negotiated and legally protected in a Separation Agreement.

Divorce is the official legal dissolution of your marriage granted by a court. In Ontario, you generally must be separated for at least one year before a judge issues a Divorce Order, allowing you to remarry.

In short, separation is where your rights are negotiated. Divorce is the final court order closing the marriage.

Ready to understand your situation? Call us at (519) 973-1500 or visit www.johnsonmiller.ca to book a consultation.