The Divorce Act Changes Explained

Definitions

Legal adviser
(Section 2(1), Divorce Act)

New section

legal adviser means any person who is qualified, in accordance with the law of a province, to represent or provide legal advice to another person in any proceeding under this Act; (conseiller juridique)

Old section

None.

What is the change

In s 9, the term “legal adviser” replaces “barrister, solicitor, lawyer or advocate.”

Reason for the change

The new definition is broader to accommodate the various terms used across Canada to refer to those who provide legal representation and services related to the Act.

When

March 1, 2021.