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You Don’t Have to Face This Alone — Family Law Consultation Toronto
Whether you need immediate guidance or space to understand your options, we’re here to support you with clarity and compassion. Reach out, and let’s take the first step toward safety and resolution, together.
She Worked Hard and Stayed With Me Through Everything.
“K. Smithen was attentive, professional, and dedicated throughout my case. She listened, answered all my questions, and fought for the best interests of me and my child. Her compassion and hard work made a difficult process easier. I strongly recommend her.”
M.O.
What Happens During Your Consultation
Knowing what happens during a family law consultation helps ease the anxiety that comes with the uncertainty of this frightening process. Here is exactly what you can expect when you speak with Kathryn.
STEP 1 — A Safe Place to Be Heard
Kathryn begins every call by listening. She wants to understand your story, your concerns, and your goals. There is no judgment and no rush. This is your time to speak freely about what you are facing or, if you’re not comfortable, to refrain from talking about all your issues until a later time when your comfort level has grown.
STEP 2 — A Clear Legal Assessment
Kathryn applies her years of expertise in Ontario family law to assess your situation. She reviews how the Family Law Act, the Divorce Act, and the Children’s Law Reform Act apply to your circumstances. You will learn about your rights, your obligations, and the likely outcomes based on your facts and how they intertwine with the law on various family law topics.
STEP 3 — A Roadmap Forward
Before the consultation ends, Kathryn outlines practical next steps. That may mean gathering financial documents, filing an application, negotiating a separation agreement, or simply taking time to consider your options. No matter what route you decide to take, you will leave any meeting with Kathryn with a clear sense of direction and next steps required.
How to Prepare
A little preparation helps you get the most from your family law consultation. You do not need everything in order; many women call in crisis with nothing gathered or organized, which is fine. But if you can, bring the following:
- Marriage certificate or date of cohabitation — Establishes timelines for property and support claims.
- Recent tax returns and income documents — Determines child support, spousal support, and contributions to children’s Section 7 expenses.
- List of assets and debts — Clarifies what is at stake financially and what a party’s net family property value might be.
- Existing court orders or agreements — Shows what legal steps have already been taken and/or decided.
- Your top three goals — Keeps the conversation focused on what matters most to you and gives Kathryn the opportunity to help focus on a game plan for achieving your goals.
If you do not have these documents, do not delay calling. Kathryn can guide you on obtaining them during your first meeting.
Why Women Choose Kathryn
Toronto has no shortage of family lawyers. Women choose Kathryn Smithen because she offers something rare: the combination of lived experience and elite family law legal expertise.
Kathryn is a survivor who became an advocate. She is the mother of an adult who was, at one time, a Crown witness for abuse she saw her father commit against Kathryn. She is the survivor of intense, high-conflict family law litigation and a criminal prosecution against her former spouse. She has walked through hardship, rebuilt her life, and dedicated her career to helping other women do the same. That lived understanding shapes every conversation.
As a respected family lawyer in Toronto, Kathryn has been featured in Maclean’s magazine, the Globe and Mail, the Toronto Star, and Law Times. She is a member of the Law Society of Ontario. She takes private retainers and does some pro bono work. Her practice is trauma-informed by design — built on dignity, safety, and results.
Pricing & Transparency
Legal fees should never be a mystery. Kathryn offers transparent, flat-fee options for many services, so you know exactly what to expect before any work begins. During your family law consultation, she will explain the fee structure that applies to your matter — whether that is a fixed fee for a separation agreement, a retainer for litigation, or limited-scope representation to fit your budget. There are no hidden charges.
Support and Clarity
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a family law consultation cost in Toronto?
Kathryn offers an initial consultation fee. During the consultation, she explains fee options for your specific matter, including flat-fee and limited-scope services where appropriate.
Is everything I say during the consultation confidential?
Yes. All communications with a lawyer are protected by solicitor-client privilege. Nothing you share with Kathryn will be disclosed to anyone without your permission. This protection begins the moment you reach out.
What should I bring to my first family law consultation?
Bring your marriage certificate, recent tax returns, a list of assets and debts, any existing court orders, and your key questions. If you do not have everything, that is okay — Kathryn will help you locate what is needed.