The Wife refers to Rick v. Brandsema, 2009 SCC 10. That case confirmed that separation agreements should not be subject to the same rules as those applicable to commercial contracts negotiated between two parties of equal strength, because of the uniqueness of the negotiating environment, which is “on the fault line of one of the most emotionally charged junctures of their relationship - when it unravels” (at para. 40). The case confirmed that the court must be sensitive to the “social and socio-economic realities” that shape parties’ roles in spousal relationships and have the potential to negatively impact settlement negotiations upon marriage breakdown (at para. 41). Judicial intervention would be justified where agreements were found to be procedurally and substantively flawed. However, the court must respect the parties’ right to decide for themselves what constitutes for them mutually equitable sharing.
"The most advanced legal research software ever built."
The above passage should not be considered legal advice. Reliable answers to complex legal questions require comprehensive research memos. To learn more visit www.alexi.com.