Legal

From birth certificates to Social Insurance Numbers (SIN), once you have a child there are many legal documents you will want to obtain. If you plan to parent on your own, you may want legal advice on obtaining child support or custody issues. Or you may be in a situation where you need information about child access/custody protection programs or family law. For more detailed information, follow these links.

  • Registering a Birth in Manitoba – Every child born in Manitoba must be registered with Vital Statistics Agency within five days of the birth or before the baby leaves the health facility. As of July 1, 2011, Vital Statistics Agency, Canada Revenue Agency and Service Canada introduce the Integrated Birth Registration process to Manitoba. This means that parents can choose to apply for Canada Child Benefits or a Social Insurance Number (SIN) for their baby when they complete the Registration of Birth form.
  • Birth Certificate Information – Find out who is entitled to receive certificates.
  • Social Insurance Number Information – How to apply for a SIN.
  • Human Rights & Reasonable Accommodations – The Human Rights Code is Manitoba's provincial human rights law. It protects individuals and groups in Manitoba from discrimination and is administered by the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

Child Access

Child Support & Maintenance

When a relationship ends, parental financial obligations continue to ensure the well-being of the child.

Family Justice

Legal Aid

Separation & Divorce

Separation and divorce can be a time of confusion, sorrow and pain for all members of the family. If you are separating or divorcing while you are pregnant, this will be an even more stressful period for you. If you have children and are separating or going through a divorce, it's a great idea to talk to your children and let them know that the marriage separation has nothing to do with them, and that both parents love them very much. It's also a good idea to tell your children that the divorce is permanent.

Try to retain as many routines as possible. Make sure they know they can ask you questions about the future and try to calm any fears they may have about the separation. Try to focus on the positives when talking to your children, and try to speak kindly of your spouse in front of your children. You could reassure them that they will get to spend time with both of you. Most of all, make sure they know how much they are cared for by both parents.

If you are pregnant and going through a divorce make sure that you are taking time to relax and de-stress. Separation and divorce are very difficult times and experiencing one while pregnant may intensify your feelings and stress. Talk to your family or friends about your feelings. If you do not have someone you feel comfortable talking to, speak to a professional who will be able to listen, help and guide you without judgment.

Wills

With a baby joining your family, it's very important to make sure you have an up-to-date will. You will need to name a guardian in your will to be responsible for your child's care in the event that both parents die. For more information on wills in Manitoba, follow these links.