Family laws apply to all kinds of families and relationships. Whether you are in a new relationship, want to have children or are separating from your spouse or partner, the law impacts you. Explore the pages and tools on this site to learn about the law, make sense of your situation and figure out what to do next.

We at CPLEA know legal issues can be complicated, but we’re here to help! CPLEA is a not-for-profit organization committed to making the law understandable for and freely accessible to Albertans. We designed this site to be a go-to resource for family law in Alberta.

Explore common topics

What is your marital status

Learn the types of legal relationships in Alberta.

Rules about child support

Overview of the laws about child support, including who pays.

Rules about spousal and partner support

Overview of the laws about spousal/partner support.

Being a parent or guardian

Overview of who are a child’s parents and guardians.

Ways to resolve disputes

Different options, including professionals who can help.

What to do about family violence

Overview of what family violence is and helpful legal tools.

Not sure where to start?

The end of a relationship can be a confusing and overwhelming time. You may not know where to start, what the law says about your situation or who can help you.

Tell your story

A worksheet to reflect and brainstorm after a separation.

What to do when your relationship ends

Overview of legal issues and what do after a separation.