Do-it-Yourself
Sometimes separated spouses are able to come to an agreement with respect to the family law issues arising from their separation directly, and without outside involvement.
These direct negotiations are sometimes referred to as “kitchen table” negotiations, or “do-it-yourself” agreements. Direct negotiations are completely voluntary, and the spouses are free to focus on what matters most to them in reaching an agreement. Separated spouses who are able to negotiate the terms of a settlement on their own should still retain lawyers to provide them each with independent legal advice (I.L.A.) before signing an agreement, to confirm that they fully understand its consequences, and to ensure that it will be legally binding and enforceable in court.
Process Diagram

The parties work out a deal themselves.

The parties meet with their lawyers to explain their agreement and obtain independent legal advice on its terms.

The lawyers work together to draft a Separation Agreement.

The parties sign the Separation Agreement, making their agreement legally binding.
News
Here you will find links to articles to help explain the issues and options around family law.
Separation agreement paves path to well-structured divorce
Uncategorized
By Jennifer Brown, AdvocateDaily.com Senior Editor Couples might be tempted to skip the separation agreement when they split, but it is an essential first step […]
Separation agreement not the final word on spousal support
Uncategorized
By AdvocateDaily.com Staff A separation agreement is not always the final word on spousal support, says St. Catharines family lawyer and mediator Sharon Silbert. In a […]
What's Next
Having seen the various options for how we can work together, take a look at some additional resources or explore the issues further on the services page.
Process Options:
Mediation
Collaborative Family Law
Lawyer-Led Negotiations
Do-it-Yourself
Litigation (Court Proceedings)
Arbitration
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