CBC Radio: Financial Strain Driving Divorce - Featuring Christopher Yu, Shulman & Partners

In a recent CBC Radio interview, Christopher Yu, Family Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP, joined host Megan Reed to discuss how financial pressures are increasingly driving marital breakdowns in Canada. With inflation, high interest rates, and rising housing costs putting strain on household budgets, money has become one of the most common sources of marital conflict—and one of the most complex aspects of separation. Christopher explained how financial stress can both trigger divorce and complicate the division of assets and debts once a relationship ends. He also offered practical advice for separating spouses on how to regain financial stability through planning, transparency, and realistic budgeting during and after divorce.

“It doesn’t really matter how much you earn because someone that earns 100 but spends 90 is worse off than someone that earns 60 but only spends 40. So develop that financial plan.”
— Christopher Yu, Partner at Shulman & Partners LLP

The financial realities of modern life are putting increasing pressure on Canadian families, and according to Christopher, this pressure often becomes a central factor in divorce. Speaking with CBC Radio, he explained that many couples begin to experience conflict when faced with difficult decisions about spending, saving, and managing debt. Disagreements over financial priorities—such as how much to allocate to lifestyle expenses or how to handle growing bills—can strain relationships and erode communication.

Even after separation, finances continue to be a major challenge. Christopher outlined how dividing marital property can be complicated by economic volatility, particularly when it comes to housing. For many families, the home is their largest shared asset. Couples who purchased property at peak market prices may now face losses if they need to sell during a downturn. Similarly, deciding how to divide investments, bank accounts, and lines of credit requires careful attention to both legal and financial implications.

He emphasized that under Ontario family law, debts and assets accumulated during marriage are shared equally, regardless of whose name they are under. That means even if one spouse incurs debt individually, both parties are responsible for it. This equalization process, while intended to promote fairness, can be emotionally and financially difficult when one spouse feels burdened by the other’s financial decisions.

To help couples manage this transition, Christopher urged the importance of creating a post-divorce financial plan. Separating individuals must recognize that their lifestyle will change: expenses once shared must now be covered independently, and new obligations such as spousal or child support may arise. Developing a clear picture of income, expenses, and savings goals is essential for rebuilding stability. Consulting a financial advisor, he suggested, can help newly single individuals make informed choices and avoid long-term hardship.

Ultimately, Christopher reminded listeners that financial resilience is not just about income level—it’s about understanding spending habits, setting limits, and preparing for the future. With thoughtful planning and professional support, families can navigate the financial challenges of divorce and begin the process of rebuilding their lives.

Listen to the full CBC Radio show segment here.

This media appearance is part of Shulman & Partners LLP’s ongoing contributions to Canadian family law discussions. Explore more of our media features in our In the Media  archive.