Separation refers to the decision by one or both spouses to live apart, which may or may not lead to divorce. Divorce legally ends the marriage and divides the assets and liabilities between the parties. Key issues in divorce include property division, spousal support (alimony), and arrangements for any children. The process can involve negotiations, mediation, or court hearings, especially if there is disagreement on key matters.

Relocation matters arise when one parent seeks to move with a child, often after a separation or divorce. Relocation can be contentious, particularly if it impacts the child’s relationship with the other parent. The court evaluates whether the move is in the child's best interests, considering factors like the distance of the move, the reason for relocation, and the child’s need for stability and emotional connection with both parents.

An ante-nuptial contract (ANC) is a legal agreement made before marriage that outlines how the couple’s assets will be divided in the event of divorce or death. This contract is particularly important for couples who want to define separate ownership of property or set out specific terms for asset distribution, avoiding default legal regimes like community property or separate property.

Child abduction refers to the unlawful taking or retention of a child, typically by one parent, in violation of custody or access agreements. Abduction can involve international or domestic cases. Legal recourse often involves applying for a court order for the child’s return, and international abductions may involve treaties like the Hague Convention on International Child Abduction to facilitate cross-border enforcement.

In family law, the best interests of the child are the paramount consideration in all matters related to children, including custody, access, and support. Courts and legal practitioners prioritize the child’s emotional, physical, and psychological well-being, ensuring that decisions about parental responsibility, residence, and contact align with the child’s needs and rights.

A parenting plan is a written agreement between separated or divorced parents that outlines the responsibilities and roles of each parent in raising their children. It covers issues like custody arrangements, visitation schedules, decision-making authority, and communication between parents. Parenting plans are designed to promote cooperation and consistency, focusing on the child’s best interests.