Global News: Job Loss and Divorce - Featuring Laura Paris, Shulman & Partners

Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP, joined Global News to discuss how pandemic-related job losses and income disruption are placing increased strain on marriages across Ontario. As COVID-19 reshaped employment and financial stability for many households, the conversation focused on how sudden changes to income, investments, and lifestyle expectations can intensify existing relationship tensions. Financial stress has long been one of the leading contributors to separation, and the pandemic has amplified that reality for many couples. The interview explored what families should consider when financial hardship leads to the contemplation of separation, including the importance of pausing before making irreversible decisions and understanding the legal and financial consequences of dividing assets during economic uncertainty.

“When you face these financial issues, especially when it’s an unexpected type of situation, it’s really a true testament to the strength of your relationship whether or not you’re able to work through it.”
- Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP

During the interview, Laura explained that while financial stress has always played a significant role in relationship breakdowns, the pandemic created a unique combination of pressures. Job losses, reduced income, market volatility, and prolonged confinement at home intensified conflict for many couples. Even households where employment remained intact experienced heightened anxiety due to uncertainty about the future.

Laura emphasized that not every call to a family lawyer signals a final decision to separate. Often, early consultations focus on helping individuals determine whether they are truly ready to proceed or whether alternative steps such as counseling, mediation, or financial planning should be explored first. She noted that seeking guidance early can prevent decisions made solely in moments of crisis.

For couples who have decided to separate, Laura outlined the importance of beginning with a clear financial picture. This includes preparing detailed financial statements to identify assets, debts, and liabilities. Particular attention is often paid to the matrimonial home, which carries both financial and emotional significance, especially for families with children. Pandemic-related income loss can make retaining the home or maintaining a prior lifestyle unrealistic, requiring difficult but necessary adjustments.

The interview also highlighted how dividing assets during economic instability can feel overwhelming. Reduced cash flow, lower investment values, and increased debt mean that separating households must often operate with fewer resources than before. Laura stressed that accepting financial reality is a critical step, even when it involves downsizing or reassessing long-term expectations.

Finally, she cautioned against informal, do-it-yourself separation agreements reached without professional advice. While amicable solutions are encouraged, agreements reached without legal review can create long-term complications that are difficult to undo. Independent legal advice helps individuals understand their rights, obligations, and the implications of any compromises made.

Listen to the full Global News 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.