Your Right to Self-Represent
You have the legal right to represent yourself in family court. Many Albertans do so successfully, particularly in straightforward matters. However, it's important to understand both the challenges and available resources.
When Self-Representation May Work
- Uncontested divorces with no children
- Simple property division by agreement
- Minor variations to existing orders
- When both parties are cooperative
When to Consider a Lawyer
- Complex custody disputes
- Significant assets or debts
- Domestic violence situations
- Self-employed income issues
- The other party has a lawyer
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you have the right to represent yourself. Courts provide resources for self-represented litigants, but consider consulting a lawyer for complex matters.