eNews: Law
Updated May 2021
When parents separate, Canadian law requires that both parents contribute to their children’s support. This usually means the parent who spends less time with a child pays “child support” to the parent who spends more time with the child. But who counts as a parent? How long do they have to pay? And how much?
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Note: Since May 2020, conferences in family and small claims matters are being conducted by telephone, audio- or video-conference. See Virtual conferences and hearings (by phone or video) for more information.
Kim is 14 years old, has never been in trouble with the law before, and stole a bag of candy from a store on a dare from a friend. Jaz is 15 years old, was sentenced for theft under $5,000 (shoplifting) six months ago, and has now pleaded guilty to another charge of theft from a store.