The Divorce Act Changes Explained

Interjurisdictional proceedings

Designated authority
(Section 18, Divorce Act)

New section

designated authority means a person or entity that is designated by a province to exercise the powers or perform the duties and functions set out in sections 18.1 to 19.1 within the province. (autorité désignée)

Old section

None.

What is the change

The amendment defines the term “designated authority.” It is a person or entity in a province responsible for performing the functions set out in ss 18.1 through 19.1.

Reason for the change

Every Canadian province and territory has an office responsible for performing administrative functions, such as sending and receiving applications between jurisdictions. These offices are “designated authorities.”

When

March 1, 2021.