The Divorce Act Changes Explained

Definitions

Parenting order
(Section 2(1), Divorce Act)

New section

parenting order means an order made under subsection 16.1(1); (ordonnance parentale)

Old section

None.

What is the change

The amendment defines a parenting order as an order made under s 16.1(1). Parenting time and decision-making responsibility would be assigned under a parenting order.

Reason for the change

To emphasize the best interests of the child, the Act now features concepts and words that focus on relationships with children, such as parenting time and decision-making responsibility. The term “parenting order” replaces “custody order” throughout the Act, for instance.

When

March 1, 2021.