James Studer

James grew up in British Columbia and obtained Bachelor of Arts with a major in Economics and a double minor in Political Science and Philosophy. He moved to Ontario to study law at Queen’s University and has resided in Ontario ever since.

After law school, James articled at a boutique litigation firm in Waterloo before moving to Toronto to practice family law focusing primarily on family law cases that required litigation. James’ also represented various clients in civil, criminal, and immigration matters that arose from the breakdown of their marriage or common-law relationship.

James’ litigation experience allows him to effectively advocate for his clients while understanding the costs, both financially and emotionally, that clients will incur during litigation. James will only recommend litigation where it is necessary to protect his client’s interests and will help clients explore alternatives to litigation where it is appropriate.

In his spare time, James enjoys spending time with his friends and family while keeping busy playing soccer and other sporting activities like squash, tennis, golf and dodge ball.

Galbraith Family Law

Common Myths about Divorce

Myth: Divorce is the end of my world.

Fact: Divorce is only one event in your life. You can choose to give up hope or you can choose to treat it as a new opportunity to improve your life.

Myth: My spouse must be made to pay for breaking our vow.

Fact: Regardless of who decides to end the marriage, no one is blamed monetarily. We have what is called a “no fault” divorce.

Myth: I get half of everything my spouse owns and he/she gets half of everything I own.

Fact: You do not necessarily get half of his tools, or half of her jewellery, etc. The value of all assets and liabilities amassed during the marriage are accounted for by each of you and the person who has more net family property than the other pays half of the difference to the other spouse. The idea is that each person will share equally in the growth or loss from the marriage. There are certain rules applicable to certain assets, for example gifts and inheritances received during marriage are exempted from the calculation.

Myth: If I ask for what is fair, my spouse is going to want me to go lower and so I will ask for a ridiculously high amount for support or property division.

Fact: It is best to negotiate in good faith rather than to take an unreasonable stand which could scuttle negotiations.

Myth: The children will see what an idiot my spouse is when I explain to them what he/she is expecting me to settle for.

Fact: The children ought not be expected or asked to take sides or to be involved in adult issues. They need to know that each parent loves them and that they are free to love their parent without fear of repercussions from the other parent.

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Using the Collaborative process to resolve the issues arising from your marriage is the most respectful, sensible and cost effective way to do so. Speak to a Collaborative professional to find out how the process works.

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Collaborative Practice Simcoe County is group of Collaborative Divorce Professionals in Simcoe County serving the Greater Barrie, Innisfil, Collingwood and Orillia areas.

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