NewsTalk 1010: Ask a Divorce Lawyer - Featuring Laura Paris, Shulman & Partners

In a segment on NewsTalk 1010, host Jim Richards spoke with Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer at Shulman & Partners LLP, about the realities of separation and the pressures that lead many couples to seek legal guidance. Their conversation came as part of a broader discussion on why relationship breakdowns are often more complicated than they appear from the outside, especially when financial strain, communication issues, or long-standing conflict are involved. Laura drew from her experience in Ontario family law to explain the questions she hears most often, the misconceptions that frequently surprise clients, and the emotional and financial challenges that shape the separation process. The segment aimed to provide listeners with practical insight into what truly unfolds when a relationship reaches its breaking point.

“One of the main questions that I get surrounds spousal support. A lot of people find it really outrageous to wrap their head around the fact that they were the ones working the entire relationship and that they’re going to have to continue working to support the unemployed individual, especially in a long-term relationship.”
— Laura Paris, Associate Lawyer, Shulman & Partners LLP

In the segment, Laura explained that one of the most common questions she receives relates to spousal support. Many clients are startled to learn they may have ongoing financial obligations toward a spouse who did not work during the relationship, even after separation. She emphasized that these obligations are grounded in long-established principles of family law, particularly in long-term unions where one partner sacrificed career development for the household.

Another frequent area of confusion involves pensions. She noted that many people incorrectly assume a pension is exclusively theirs because they contributed to it personally. She clarified that, under Ontario’s Equalization regime, pensions are treated like any other asset, subject to division unless they fall under narrow exceptions such as inheritances or certain gifts.

The discussion also moved into the emotional toll of family law. Laura shared how difficult it can be to separate the legal role from the deeply personal issues clients face. In her early career, she often carried that emotional weight home, especially when cases involved children or high conflict. Over time, she developed strategies to maintain boundaries while still supporting clients through challenging transitions.

Laura also explained that although her work exposes her to conflict, she still believes relationships can succeed when both partners are committed to communication and mutual respect. However, she also acknowledged the importance of protecting one’s financial and legal interests before cohabitation or marriage, particularly regarding real estate, income disparities, and even ownership of pets.

The conversation ended with a fast-paced Q&A touching on reasons for separation, the consequences of financial secrecy, challenges created by prolonged court processes, and the harmful impact on children when parents remain in high-conflict relationships. Laura underscored that proactive planning and honest communication remain essential, whether at the beginning of a relationship or its end.

Listen to the full NewsTalk 1010 interview 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.