The Divorce Act Changes Explained

Proceedings Between a Province and a Designated Jurisdiction

Broad interpretation of documents
(Section 19(16), Divorce Act)

New section

Broad interpretation of documents

(16) For greater certainty, if a court receives a document under this section that is in a form that is different from that required by the rules regulating the practice and procedure in that court, or that contains terminology that is different from that used in this Act or the regulations, the court shall give a broad interpretation to the document for the purpose of giving effect to it.
Old section

None.

What is the change

The amendment directs the court to broadly interpret documents and terminology for the purpose of giving effect to all documents it receives under the new inter-jurisdictional procedure.

Reason for the change

To promote efficiency, the various document formats and terminology used in different jurisdictions should not slow the court’s work.

When

March 1, 2021.