Business Details
Expert Legal Services in Barrie
Ewen Boyd LLP is a family-owned and operated law firm dedicated to providing personalized legal services in Barrie, Simcoe County, and Muskoka. With over 30 years of combined legal experience, our team specializes in family law, residential and commercial real estate, and estate planning. We pride ourselves on a small-firm approach, working directly with clients from all walks of life, including the LGBTQ+ community and Canadian military families. Our commitment to the community is reflected in our volunteer work with organizations such as Green Haven Shelter for Women and Seasons Centre for Grieving Children.We offer bilingual services in English and French, ensuring accessibility and cultural sensitivity. Our lawyers have argued cases across Ontario, from Windsor to Peterborough, and have extensive experience in property transactions, family court litigation, and estate administration. We prioritize transparency, empathy, and client-centered solutions, ensuring that every client receives the attention and expertise they deserve.
Services
Family Law
Real Estate Law
Estate Planning
Wills & Estates
Separation Agreements
Highlights and features
- We have 30+ years of combined legal experience in family law and real estate.
- Our small-firm approach ensures direct, personalized client interaction.
- We support Canadian military families through the Brookfield Relocation program.
- Bilingual services available in English and French.
- Active community involvement with organizations like Green Haven Shelter for Women.
Services
Family Law
Ewen Boyd LLP provides comprehensive family law services, including separation agreements, child custody, and spousal support. Our lawyers advocate for clients in court and negotiate settlements to protect family interests. We address complex issues like property division and emergency restraining orders, ensuring empathetic and legally sound solutions for all parties involved.
Real Estate Law
Our real estate services cover residential and commercial transactions, including home purchases, refinancing, and modular home sales. We assist with title insurance, land severances, and private agreements, ensuring compliance with Ontario Land Registry requirements. Our team supports first-time buyers and military families through the Brookfield Relocation program, offering hands-on guidance for stress-free transactions.
Estate Planning
Ewen Boyd LLP helps clients create wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives to safeguard their legacy. We ensure assets are distributed according to your wishes and advise on updating documents to reflect life changes. Our estate administration services assist executors in managing probate and settling estates with clarity and legal compliance.
Separation Agreements
We draft and review separation agreements to resolve custody, support, and property disputes outside court. Our lawyers ensure agreements comply with Ontario guidelines, minimizing future challenges. We also handle amendments for changing circumstances and provide legal waivers for self-represented parties, prioritizing fair and enforceable outcomes.
Child Support & Custody
Our family law experts navigate child support calculations, custody arrangements, and enforcement through the Family Responsibility Office. We address retroactive support claims and modifications due to income changes, ensuring compliance with Canadian guidelines. Services include court representation and mediation to protect children's best interests while balancing parental responsibilities.
People
John H. Ewen
Partner
John H. Ewen is a seasoned family law and real estate attorney with decades of experience in Ontario courts. He specializes in complex separations, property disputes, and estate planning, offering bilingual legal services in English and French. John is committed to community advocacy and military family support.
Laura C. Boyd
Partner
Laura C. Boyd focuses on family law, estate administration, and real estate transactions. With a client-centered approach, she guides families through separations, wills, and property sales. Laura actively volunteers in local organizations and supports LGBTQ+ rights, ensuring inclusive legal representation for all clients.
Questions
What is a Separation Agreement, and why do I need one?
A Separation Agreement is a legally binding contract resolving custody, support, and property issues after separation. It prevents court disputes and ensures clear terms for both parties, avoiding future conflicts.
How does child support get calculated in Ontario?
Child support in Ontario follows federal guidelines based on income, number of children, and custody arrangements. Courts consider special needs or education costs, ensuring fair financial responsibility for both parents.
Can I draft my own will without a lawyer?
While possible, homemade wills often lack legal compliance, leading to bank rejections or court challenges. A lawyer ensures proper execution, avoiding gaps and ensuring your assets are distributed as intended.
Do I need a lawyer for a real estate transaction?
Yes, Ontario law requires a licensed lawyer for real estate closings. They handle title transfers, tax calculations, and legal documents, ensuring compliance and protecting your investment from unforeseen liabilities.
What happens to property during a common-law separation?
Common-law couples in Ontario face complex property division rules. Unlike married couples, there's no automatic equalization. Legal advice is crucial to protect assets and resolve disputes over jointly owned property.
How can I update an existing Separation Agreement?
Amendments require mutual consent and legal review. We assist in modifying support terms, custody arrangements, or property clauses due to life changes, ensuring updated agreements remain enforceable under Ontario law.
