On June 21st, 2019, the Government of Canada introduced Bill C-78, with an intention to update and strengthen the federal family laws. Being the first substantive change in over 20 years, Bill C-78 is critical in ensuring the family justice system is more efficient and accessible. Changes include, but are not limited to, promoting the best interests of the child, addressing violence in the family home, and reducing child poverty.
On June 5th, 2020, the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, the Honourable David Lametti, announced that there would be a delay to the changes of the Divorce Act. Initially the changes were scheduled to be released by July 1st, 2020. However, the COVID-19 pandemic created extraordinary circumstances, impeding on the government’s ability to meet its original deadline. Consequently, the changes will instead come into force on March 1st, 2021.
To learn more about the delays associated with Bill C-78 visit https://www.canada.ca/en/department-justice/news/2020/06/government-delays-divorce-act-amendments-coming-in-to-force-in-response-to-requests-from-justice-partners-due-to-covid-19-pandemic.html