Consultations
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There is no playbook or checklist to follow when you are newly separated. Your situation is as unique as you are. Although there is much to read online it lacks that custom application to you.
I have been practicing family law throughout Southern Ontario since 1981 and have seen a lot. I have done a ton of court work, some mediation, and a little bit of collaborative law. Always negotiating and searching for solutions. At this point I am not doing court work and am very selective about the files that I will work on. There must be a good fit. The client and I and the other lawyer must be able to work well together. What I enjoy the most is helping people. At this stage of my career I am finding that initial consultations are a great way for me to help. I am not looking to secure your work on an ongoing basis – I am trying to understand you and your situation so we can highlight the primary legal issues and concerns and discuss options and approaches - the beginning of a playbook to help you navigate your way to better days ahead. I can refer or recommend lawyers, mediators, parenting and financial professionals and collaborative lawyers that I know or have worked with that could be a fit for you. Or it could be me. And if you are thinking about representing yourself because lawyers are too expensive - think again. There are cost effective options out there and regardless I can help you get started on the right track. My consultation fee is $400 +HST. Roughly one hour but the meter is not running. Fee includes pre-review of documents and written history. Zoom or phone whichever you prefer. mjmarra6@gmail.com My practice is 100% virtual. No in person services. |
SETTLEMENTS
Most family law cases are settled and in most family law cases court is unnecessary. I will work with you and the other lawyer to try to achieve a negotiated settlement in a fair and reasonable manner as quickly as possible. And I am a strong believer in mediation when we get stuck in the direct negotiation process. I am collaboratively trained and my approach is cooperative.
Settlements will happen.
Later in life separations, "divorce for seniors" , the "grey divorce" https://www.cbc.ca/radio/sunday/grey-divorce-five-women-s-stories-1.4440192 and changes in spousal support upon pending retirement are of great interest.
I am particularly adept at working with clients and financial professionals and advisors within complex financial situations to the best advantage of the client. Thorough and comprehensive ILA and negotiation of cohabitation and marriage contracts also comprise a significant amount of the work that I am doing.
I am currently a member of the Ontario Bar Association Family Law Executive and have been actively involved in sub-committees that have made submissions regarding the Children's Law Reform Act Amendments, the Superior Court's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Motion to Change reform and the LSO paralegal proposal.
My practice is entirely virtual. No in person meetings and I do not go to court houses any more. I have reduced my hourly rate to reflect my reduced costs of operation. The feedback from my clients has been very positive.
CHILD SUPPORT & FRO
I was counsel for FRO for many years. I know the FRO & child support system. I offer thorough consultations to help you navigate a solution.
mjmarra6@gmail.com I also provide advisory and co-counsel services to family law counsel on FRO matters.
Visit the Child Support in Ontario page for basic information regarding the Child Support Guidelines, Motions to Change and Retroactive Child Support.
Visit the Family Responsibility Office page for basic information regarding how FRO works, 50% wage deductions, driver's license suspensions, passport suspension, credit bureau reporting and default hearings.
*Michael J Marra LLB practices family law in Ontario 100% remotely from his residence in Treaty One Territory (Winnipeg) LSO # 20700N
Most family law cases are settled and in most family law cases court is unnecessary. I will work with you and the other lawyer to try to achieve a negotiated settlement in a fair and reasonable manner as quickly as possible. And I am a strong believer in mediation when we get stuck in the direct negotiation process. I am collaboratively trained and my approach is cooperative.
Settlements will happen.
Later in life separations, "divorce for seniors" , the "grey divorce" https://www.cbc.ca/radio/sunday/grey-divorce-five-women-s-stories-1.4440192 and changes in spousal support upon pending retirement are of great interest.
I am particularly adept at working with clients and financial professionals and advisors within complex financial situations to the best advantage of the client. Thorough and comprehensive ILA and negotiation of cohabitation and marriage contracts also comprise a significant amount of the work that I am doing.
I am currently a member of the Ontario Bar Association Family Law Executive and have been actively involved in sub-committees that have made submissions regarding the Children's Law Reform Act Amendments, the Superior Court's response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Motion to Change reform and the LSO paralegal proposal.
My practice is entirely virtual. No in person meetings and I do not go to court houses any more. I have reduced my hourly rate to reflect my reduced costs of operation. The feedback from my clients has been very positive.
CHILD SUPPORT & FRO
I was counsel for FRO for many years. I know the FRO & child support system. I offer thorough consultations to help you navigate a solution.
mjmarra6@gmail.com I also provide advisory and co-counsel services to family law counsel on FRO matters.
Visit the Child Support in Ontario page for basic information regarding the Child Support Guidelines, Motions to Change and Retroactive Child Support.
Visit the Family Responsibility Office page for basic information regarding how FRO works, 50% wage deductions, driver's license suspensions, passport suspension, credit bureau reporting and default hearings.
*Michael J Marra LLB practices family law in Ontario 100% remotely from his residence in Treaty One Territory (Winnipeg) LSO # 20700N