SMP Law – Family Law and Polamory
What is a polyamorous relationship?
A polyamorous relationship is described as a type of relationship where individuals are open to having more than one romantic or intimate relationship at the same time, with the knowledge and consent of all partners involved. Just for clarity, there is a difference between polyamory and polygamy. Polyamory involves having multiple consensual, intimate relationships simultaneously, which is legal in Canada. Polygamy consists of being married to more than one person and is illegal under Section 293 of the Criminal Code. In an article by the Toronto Sun, 1 in 5 Canadians have practiced consensual non-monogamy.
How is this Related to Family Law?
Family law in polyamorous relationship can get become a bit complicated, particularly in parenting issues. The law is historically rooted in the assumption of two-parent families, so family matters pertaining to parenting time, child support, spousal support, and equalization can become areas of unknown territory for polyamorous relationships.
If you are in a polyamorous relationship involving children that you all parent, it is wise to ensure you have a well-planned agreement in place that is signed by all parties that helps deal with the issues mentioned above, in the event of a separation.
SMP Law is always here to help SiMPlify your legal matter and answer any of your questions. Contact us anytime at SMP Law to help SiMPlify your legal matter at 905-565-9494 or email info@smplaw.ca if you have any questions or would like to book an appointment to meet and discuss your situation and how we can help.