Global News: Protecting Lottery Winnings - Featuring Laura Paris, Shulman & Partners

Winning the lottery may seem like a dream scenario, but a Global News segment highlighted how sudden wealth can quickly become a legal minefield when relationships break down. The story was prompted by a high-profile Ontario dispute involving a former common-law partner seeking a share of lottery winnings, raising broader questions about entitlement, documentation, and assumptions couples often make about shared assets. Laura Paris, an Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP, explained how lottery winnings are treated under Ontario family law and why misunderstandings are especially common among common-law couples. Her commentary underscored the importance of clarity, planning, and legal advice before and after a major financial windfall.

“We do see that common-law couples are coming in with the mistaken understanding that what’s theirs is theirs and what their spouse’s is their spouse’s, but that’s not necessarily the case.”
— Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP

The Global News segment explored how lottery winnings can complicate separations, particularly for couples who never formalized how assets should be divided. Laura explained that many common-law partners assume winnings automatically belong to the person whose name is on the ticket, but Ontario law does not always support that belief. Without proper documentation, disputes can arise over whether the winnings were intended to be shared.

She noted that one of the most effective ways to avoid conflict is through a cohabitation agreement that clearly outlines how assets, including unexpected gains like lottery winnings, will be divided if the relationship ends. These agreements help clarify intentions in advance and reduce uncertainty during emotionally charged separations.

When no agreement exists, Laura emphasized the importance of documenting intent at the time of the lottery win. This can include ensuring both partners sign the ticket or creating a written record that clearly states how the winnings are meant to be shared. Even documentation prepared after the win can help prevent future disputes by providing evidence of mutual understanding.

The segment also highlighted how quickly relationships can deteriorate when large sums of money are involved, particularly if expectations were never discussed. Laura’s insights reinforced a broader message: financial surprises can expose legal vulnerabilities in relationships, especially where couples rely on assumptions instead of formal agreements.

Ultimately, the discussion served as a reminder that major financial events — even positive ones — benefit from legal foresight. Clear communication and proper documentation can help couples protect both their relationships and their financial futures.

Watch 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.