Get help with parenting and decision making regarding your children
Navigate complex decision-making responsibility and parenting time with Smithen Family Law. Our strategic, child-centered approach ensures clarity, prioritizes your children’s well-being, and creates safe, stable outcomes.
WHAT WE DO
A Custody Process That Respects You and Protects Your Children.
Child custody is not about winners and losers, it is about creating a parenting structure that genuinely supports your children. We help you build a clear, practical parenting plan grounded in your children’s needs, your safety, and your family’s unique situation. Our guidance is honest, strategic, and always centered on minimizing conflict.
WAYS WE SUPPORT YOU
Clear, Compassionate Support for Every Part of the Custody Process
Why Choose Us
Child-Centered Guidance Grounded in Clarity, Safety, and Experience
At Smithen Family Law, your children’s safety and stability come first. We understand how emotional and distressing custody disputes can be, especially when trauma or conflict is involved.
Our trauma-informed approach blends strong legal strategy with compassion, ensuring your concerns are respected and your children’s needs remain at the center. We guide you through each decision with clarity, patience, and unwavering commitment to your long-term peace of mind. With us, you’re supported-not judged-and your children’s well-being stays protected.
Stories of Strength
What Our Clients Say
The most meaningful measure of our work is the lives rebuilt along the way. These stories reflect courage, trust, and the quiet victories that matter most when navigating family law and personal transformation.
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.
Her Guidance Helped Me Feel Protected and Supported
Ms Smithen is professional and cares for her clients. I was able to focus in my situation and rely all the legal stuff to her. Due to her knowledge, I was able to secure a home for my kids. She offers good advice and makes sure the job gets done. Her rates are fair and the quality of her job is excellent. She is prompt to respond even on weekends or evenings. During the worst time of my life I felt protected and care for. Without her I would have been a mess. She is strong communicator and when in court she has a great presence and makes you feel comfortable in an unfamiliar environment. When sick you call a doctor. With a divorce you want her representing you.
L.K.
Her Team Supported Me Through Every Step With Grace.
Kathryn listened carefully to my situation and made me feel safe and supported. She and her team worked diligently, guided me with grace, and helped me stay focused during a difficult time. Her professionalism, strength, and compassion made a tremendous difference. I strongly recommend her.
WY Chan
Dedicated, Empathetic, and Truly Exceptional Representation.
Kathryn is dedicated, understanding, empathetic, and incredibly sharp. She represented me in family court with outstanding attention to detail. I felt heard, validated, and fully supported throughout the process. I am forever grateful for her hard work and commitment to my case.
MCF
Her Compassion and Integrity Helped Us Stand Again.
My divorce was extremely difficult, but Kathryn helped us land on our feet. She handled my case with exceptional compassion, professionalism, and attention to detail, protecting me and my children at every step. I am deeply grateful for her integrity and dedication. She is truly the right lawyer in hard times.
Asta Velyviene
She Helped Me Protect My Son and My Future.
Kathryn guided me through my divorce and child custody case with compassion and constant support. She kept me informed, answered every question, and helped me secure a fair agreement that protected my son’s special needs. Her judgment, creativity, and dedication made a difficult process manageable.
Paula Goncalves
Where Strength Meets Compassion
You Don’t Have to Navigate Custody Decisions Alone.
When your children’s safety, stability, and future feel uncertain, we’re here to support you with clarity and compassion. Reach out, and let’s take the first step toward creating a parenting plan that protects them-and gives you peace of mind.
Support and Clarity
Frequently Asked Questions
Family law can feel overwhelming. This section answers the questions we hear most, offering clarity and support as you make decisions that impact your future and your family.
Can Child Support Change Over Time?
Yes. Support may increase or decrease when income, parenting time, or a child’s circumstances change. We help you determine when an adjustment is appropriate and how to request it.
Does Child Support Continue If My Child Is In University?
Often, yes. Many children remain entitled to support while pursuing post-secondary education. We help you understand how costs are shared and what courts consider reasonable.
What Happens If Support Isn’t Being Paid?
The Family Responsibility Office (FRO) can enforce payment through garnishment or other measures. We help you register your order and take action if payments fall behind.
What If The Other Parent Is Hiding Income?
Hidden or underreported income is common in support disputes. We identify financial inconsistencies and seek court orders when necessary to ensure your child receives fair, accurate support
Who Determines How Much Child Support Is Owed?
Child support is calculated using federal and provincial guidelines, considering income and parenting time. We help you understand the numbers clearly and ensure the amount reflects your child’s needs.
Your Next Step Starts Here
You Don’t Have to
Face This Alone
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.
