Victoria’s Top Divorce Lawyer
Going through a divorce? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to navigate it on your own. If you’re searching for a Divorce Lawyer in Victoria, it’s likely you’re facing one of the most emotionally and legally challenging periods of your life. I understand how overwhelming divorce can be, and I’m here to guide you with clarity, compassion, and decades of family law experience. From division of property to child and spousal support, I’ll make sure your rights are protected every step of the way.
5 Reasons Why You Need a Divorce Lawyer
Divorce. It can be an unsettling, overwhelming, and difficult time for anyone. The process is already hard enough for both spouses without having to struggle over the complexities of family law. If you are in the early stages of ending your marriage, you’re going to need the help of an experienced lawyer to guide you through the process. Here are the top reasons why you should hire a divorce lawyer.
A divorce lawyer has the knowledge and experience
Thinking about representing yourself to save some money? Finalizing a divorce is not an easy process. If you don’t know the ins and outs of family law, you could be getting in way over your head. A divorce lawyer has the proper training, experience, and knowledge to deal with negotiations and the mountain of paperwork that comes with every case.
A divorce lawyer provides objective advice
A divorce lawyer will help you avoid mistakes
Mistakes happen. But when it comes to the divorce process, you simply can’t afford to make any. Even one wrong decision can be devastating, impacting child custody, support concerns, property, income, debts, and assets. When you hire a divorce lawyer, you can rest assured knowing all your legal proceedings are in the best hands possible.
A divorce lawyer helps reduce stress
Let’s face it, even dispute-free, uncontested divorces can be emotionally distressing. Hiring a divorce lawyer will take the burden off your shoulders, freeing up time for you to take care of yourself and your loved ones. Whether it’s a clean break or complicated divorce, a professional lawyer will give you the peace of mind you deserve during this stressful time.
A divorce lawyer can open communication between couples
Divorces can get messy for couples, with both parties arguing over each other. And when communication breaks down, divorce proceedings can come to a grinding halt and take much longer to settle. If you need an impartial, legal referee, a divorce lawyer can help keep things civil, helping you and your soon-to-be-ex-spouse find some mutual ground.
Divorces can be a bumpy ride, filled with emotions, stress, and confusion. Why take matters into your own hands and risk making things worse if you don’t have to? Here at Deborah Todd Law, Deborah will work closely with you to get the best settlement possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Divorce Law in Victoria
Does the amount of Child Support decrease in proportion to the number of children?
No, the Federal Child Support Guidelines provide a formula for child maintenance that does not equate to the number of children. For example, if you are paying $600.00 per month in child maintenance for three children the guideline amount for only two children will not be $400.00 per month.
Who pays for children’s medical and dental expenses?
Usually, the spouse who is receiving child maintenance will be responsible to pay for the children’s Medical Services Plan. Any medical or dental expenses beyond what MSP covers are special expenses and are paid by both spouses in proportion to their gross annual incomes.
Can I waive child maintenance?
Child maintenance is the right of the child and cannot legally be waived by a parent. You can enter into a separation agreement where child maintenance is waived but a court could overturn this agreement in the future.
Who gets the Child Tax Benefit if we have shared parenting?
If you have a shared parenting arrangement Revenue Canada will split the Child Tax Benefit equally between the parents and each parent will receive it for six months of the year.
What happens if I receive property as a gift or an inheritance after separation?
Any property which you receive after separation is your separate property and does not need to be shared with your spouse
What happens to Canada Pension Credits?
Your Canada Pension Credits will be split equally with your spouse from the date you begin living together to the date you separated unless you and your spouse sign a separation agreement saying that they will not be split.
Who keeps life insurance after separation?
Life insurance is often used to secure child maintenance and spousal maintenance payments. One spouse will designate the other as beneficiary for so long as child maintenance or spousal maintenance is being paid. Sometimes spouses agree to each designate a third party as trustee to receive the life insurance trust for the children.
Meet Deborah Todd: Trusted Divorce Lawyer in Victoria
With over 40 years of experience practicing family law in Victoria, I bring compassion, clarity, and confidence to every case. I’m not just a divorce lawyer, I’m a mother, a lifelong learner, and someone who understands that life doesn’t stop when your marriage does. I’ll help you move forward with strength and security.
My Approach to Divorce Law: Compassionate, Clear, and Cost-Effective
No two families are the same, and neither are their divorces. My approach as a Divorce Lawyer in Victoria focuses on resolving issues through negotiation and mediation whenever possible, helping you avoid drawn-out court battles. But when litigation is necessary, I’m a committed advocate for my clients’ rights.
What to Expect When You Work With Me
From the first consultation to the final settlement, I take a hands-on approach. I’ll explain your rights in plain language, outline your options clearly, and help you avoid unnecessary stress or costs. You’ll work directly with me—not passed off to junior staff—so you always know who’s in your corner.
Is Mediation Right for You?
Litigation isn’t your only option. I offer family mediation in Victoria to help separating couples reach respectful, legally sound agreements without the cost and stress of court. If you want to minimize conflict while still protecting your interests, I can help you decide whether mediation is the right path.
With extensive experience in areas of practice that touch on all aspects of family law, I’m committed to providing personalized legal solutions that fit your unique situation.
Client Success Stories
- Judith St. denis
Deborah Todd has been my lawyer since at least 2001 she was recommended to me by an acquaintance whom also is a lawyer and the fact that she was recommended by one of her peers meant a lot to me. Going through a divorce for the most part can be a very emotional traumatic experience and in my case I not only needed an excellent lawyer I needed one whom understands business corporations, trusts and financial accounting. Deborah not only understands but is up to date on the case law related to divorce where business and children are involved. I have felt fully supported by Deborah and her team with her ability to mediate and assist in sorting out complicated situations she is exemplary.
June 5, 2017Cynthia ReidDebbie has been my family lawyer for over 25 years. She is amazing. Her compassionate no-nonsense style and knowledge gives you the confidence to take charge of your situation. This is beneficial at the mediation table. She is simply the best family law lawyer in Victoria. Highly recommend.
July 18, 2017S HabibDeborah is the best on the Island, she has a very kind heart and very knowledgeable, she will help you to her best. She goes out of her way to be kind and helpful. Her assist is very accommodating as well.
January 9, 2019 - Jean Bigelow
My experience with Deborah Todd has been incredibly positive. Deborah knows her stuff and is easy to work with. She is sensitive to my needs and keeps things going smoothly and is completely professional at all times. I have no reservations about recommending her to friends and colleagues.
June 2, 2017Amanda CarlDeborah has provided me with professional, knowledgeable and friendly service for my legal needs. She and her staff are very helpful and prompt with their replies to phone calls & emails. I highly recommend Deborah Todd Law.
August 24, 2017Philippe HahnDeborah Todd and team are highly skilled in family law. They take a practical, no-nonsense approach that is in the best interest of their clients. We highly recommend Deborah Todd.
April 10, 2018 - Brad Yarmie
Deborah Todd and her excellent staff got me through my divorce from an extremely uncooperative and difficult partner with my best interest in mind, first and foremost! Emails were answered quickly, and I was never left hanging. She is very easy to talk to; I felt she was actually listening and understanding what I was saying. She provided the calm during the hurricane in my life. Thanks again for your help.
June 5, 2017Shirley CurtisDeborah Todd has been my lawyer for many years and has always dealt with me in a professional, courteous manner. Initially Deborah set up wills for my husband and me, and now our children have gone to Deborah to have their wills done as well. Recently Deborah helped me through the process of being an Executrix for two estates. Both of these estates were handled with understanding, timeliness, and professionalism. I am a very satisfied client.
June 7, 2017Maria M.Strength, Knowledge, Perseverance and Personal Commitment! It is my pleasure to recommend this outstanding professional. I have known Deborah Todd for over 10 years and I find her to be of the most dedicated, compassionate Lawyer I have ever met. Deborah is a warm and considerate individual, she is down to Earth and has a calm demeanor that makes people feel that not only are they heard but also have the right Anchor on their side. Deborah is an extremely talented Attorney who cares a great deal about her clients, Deborah is the kind of Lawyer who never gives up, she will spend hours working including weekends to ensure the best results for her clients. Her strong sense of organization helps her remain calm in and out of the Courtroom which is appreciated by clients. She has won a large majority of her cases, mainly because she is extremely thorough in her due diligence. I would recommend her to my friends and family.
June 12, 2017
Ready to Move Forward? Speak with a Trusted Divorce Lawyer in Victoria
Whether you’re just beginning the separation process or need help finalizing the details, I’m here to support you every step of the way. As a dedicated Divorce Lawyer in Victoria, I provide clear, compassionate guidance to help you resolve your family matters with confidence. Let’s work together toward a fair and respectful outcome that protects your future.