Strength | Strategy | Success

Exclusive family law expertise in Vancouver, guiding clients to resolution with comprehensive legal support.

Approach

While we successfully settle the large majority of our cases, we recognize that settlement is not always possible nor appropriate.  There exist a variety of avenues we are experienced at pursuing and skilled at executing. 

Dispute Resolution Strategies

Court

At Dunnaway, Jackson, Ouellet and Associates, we have a unique litigation strategy.  We are not afraid to take a strong stance when it serves our client’s interests.  When appropriate, we will apply for orders that will protect our client’s rights or advance their case, such as orders:

  • To freeze assets
  • To compel the production of financial documents
  • To conduct an examination of a key witness before a trial
  • For an order for immediate spousal support
  • For exclusive occupancy of the home
  • For immediate contact with a child
  • For immediate child support
  • For finding of contempt of court
  • For costs
  • For double costs
  • For a custody and access report
  • For a business valuation
  • To impute income
  • To sell an asset prior to trial
  • To release funds pending trial

We do not apply for these orders unnecessarily, or without good reason.  Most importantly, we do not shy away from seeking these kinds of orders because they are difficult to obtain.  If it is the right step in the litigation, we will take it.

Arbitration

Arbitration offers a swift alternative for resolution, guided by seasoned professionals at Dunnaway, Jackson, Ouellet & Associates. Resembling court proceedings, it ensures expedited decisions, providing closure when negotiation stalls.

Mediation

Litigation and Arbitration are not the only ways to resolve a family law dispute.  Often, it is far better to resolve a dispute in mediation.  At Dunnaway, Jackson, Ouellet and Associates, we identify which cases are best suited for resolution by mediation.  We use only the best mediators, all of whom are experienced family lawyers and well-versed in this area of law.  Mediated settlements can be cost-effective for cases where both parties which to resolve matters in a quick and reasonable fashion, where full disclosure of critical financial information can be made without difficulty and where domestic violence is not an issue.  We settle many cases every year with the valuable assistance of mediators.  Not every case is suitable for mediation; we will tell you whether yours is.