by admin | Sep 24, 2025 | Blog, Child Custody, Child Custody Lawyer, Divorce, Divorce Attorney, Divorce Lawyer, Family Divorce Lawyer
Introduction
Parenting time orders are designed to ensure children continue meaningful relationships with both parents after separation or divorce. In high-conflict custody cases, however, enforcing these orders is often complicated. Parents may refuse to follow schedules, cancel visits without good reason, or create conflicts during exchanges. These disputes not only undermine parental rights but can also affect the child’s emotional well-being.
Courts in Edmonton and throughout Alberta view parenting time as a right of the child. When violations occur, the legal system provides enforcement tools to restore stability and ensure compliance.
Is a parent consistently violating your court-ordered parenting time? Understanding your rights is the first step. Contact a Child Custody Lawyer in Edmonton Alberta at Kolinsky Law for a confidential consultation.
Common Challenges in High-Conflict Custody Cases
High-conflict custody cases go beyond ordinary disagreements. Parents may use parenting time as leverage, deliberately withhold children, or make unfounded allegations to restrict access. Other common challenges include:
- Frequent cancellations or delays that disrupt consistency.
- Poor communication or hostile interactions during exchanges.
- Efforts to turn the child against the other parent.
- Safety concerns, such as allegations of abuse or substance misuse.
These behaviors make it difficult for the child to maintain secure attachments and often lead to repeated court involvement. For parents, the stress of constant disputes can create financial and emotional strain.
Facing these challenges? You don’t have to navigate this alone. The Best Child Custody Lawyers in Edmonton can help you document issues and build a strong case.
Legal Mechanisms for Enforcement
When one parent refuses to comply with a parenting order, Alberta law offers remedies through the courts. Some of the most common enforcement tools include:
- Court Applications to Enforce Parenting Time
A parent can file an application to bring the violation before a judge. Courts may order make-up parenting time, impose costs, or issue warnings for future non-compliance.
- Contempt of Court
If violations are deliberate and ongoing, the court may find a parent in contempt. Consequences can range from fines to modifications of custody arrangements.
- Police Enforcement Clauses
In some cases, parenting orders include a clause allowing police to assist in returning a child if access is denied. This option is generally used only in serious or repeated violations.
- Modification of Parenting Orders
If one parent consistently undermines the arrangement, the court may vary the order, possibly granting greater decision-making authority or time to the more compliant parent.
Navigating court enforcement applications requires precision. Ensure your case is presented effectively with guidance from an experienced Child Custody Lawyer Edmonton. Call us at 📞 +1 (780)-757-6400.
Practical Strategies for Parents
Legal action is not always the first step. Parents can take practical measures to strengthen their position before seeking court intervention:
- Document every violation, including missed visits, communications, and witness accounts.
- Use parenting apps or written communication to reduce conflict and maintain records.
- Follow the order consistently, even when the other parent does not, to demonstrate reliability.
- Prioritise the child’s needs by shielding them from conflict and focusing on stability.
These practices create a clear record that can be presented to the court if enforcement becomes necessary.
Need advice on the best way to document violations? Speak with Edmonton’s Top Child Custody Lawyer at Kolinsky Law to develop a practical, evidence-based strategy. or visit us – 📍 #212A – 10807 Castle Downs Road, Edmonton, AB, T5X 3N7
The Role of Legal Guidance
High-conflict custody disputes require careful navigation of both legal rights and the child’s best interests. Parents often seek support from a Child Custody Lawyer Edmonton Alberta when repeated violations occur. Professional guidance helps ensure that applications are properly prepared, evidence is presented effectively, and enforcement remedies are pursued strategically.
In some cases, enforcement issues overlap with other legal concerns, such as support payments or allegations of misconduct. Consulting with experienced Divorce Attorney in Edmonton allows parents to understand the full scope of their legal options and protect their rights while keeping the child’s welfare at the forefront.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us today to schedule a meeting with our team and protect your parenting rights and your child’s well-being. Email us at – [email protected]
Conclusion
Enforcing parenting time in high-conflict custody cases is rarely straightforward. Persistent disputes, refusals, and violations create instability for children and frustration for parents. Alberta courts provide mechanisms such as make-up time, contempt findings, and order modifications to ensure compliance, but successful enforcement often depends on thorough documentation and sound legal strategy.
Parents navigating these challenges should recognise that parenting time is treated as a right of the child. By understanding enforcement tools, using practical strategies, and seeking reliable legal support when needed, families can work toward solutions that safeguard the child’s best interests while reducing conflict.
About David Kolinsky – Edmonton’s Top Child Custody Lawyer
David Kolinsky is a dedicated family lawyer with a focused practice on child custody and access matters in Edmonton. With a deep understanding of Alberta’s family law system, he provides strategic and compassionate representation to parents facing high-conflict custody disputes. David is committed to protecting his clients’ parental rights while always prioritising the best interests of the child. He leverages his expertise to navigate complex enforcement issues, from filing precise court applications to advocating for modifications of parenting orders. If you need a reliable and assertive advocate to help enforce your parenting time, David Kolinsky is recognised as one of the Best Lawyers for Child Custody in Edmonton.
by admin | Sep 24, 2025 | Blog, Divorce, Divorce and Separation, Divorce Attorney, Divorce Lawyer, Divorce Mediation, Family Divorce Lawyer
Introduction
Family conflicts are often complex, particularly when they involve divorce, child custody, or long-standing disputes between parents. Traditional court processes can be time-consuming, expensive, and emotionally draining, which is why alternative methods of dispute resolution are encouraged. Understanding the comparison of Mediation Vs. Restorative Justice is crucial, as these two approaches are frequently considered in family matters.
While both aim to reduce conflict outside of court, they differ in focus and method. Mediation is designed to help parties reach agreements on practical issues, whereas restorative justice seeks to repair harm and rebuild trust within relationships. Understanding these distinctions is important for families deciding how best to address their conflicts.
Unsure which path is right for your family’s unique situation? Contact our Edmonton Divorce Lawyers today for a confidential consultation to explore your options. Call us at 📞 +1 (780)-757-6400.
What is Mediation?
Mediation is a structured process where a neutral third party facilitates discussions to help people in conflict communicate and find solutions. The mediator does not make decisions but guides both sides toward a mutually acceptable agreement. In family law, mediation is often used to develop parenting plans, set custody schedules, or resolve financial disputes.
It emphasises future arrangements rather than revisiting past issues, giving parents more control and reducing time in court. Mediation is most effective when both parties negotiate in good faith but can be less useful when power imbalances or persistent unwillingness to compromise exist.
Considering mediation to resolve your family dispute? Our skilled mediators at Kolinsky Law can guide you toward a fair and practical agreement. Learn more about our process here: Mediation Services in Edmonton.
What is Restorative Justice?
Restorative justice focuses on addressing harm rather than simply reaching an agreement. It brings together those affected, often parents and sometimes children, to discuss what happened, how each person was impacted, and what can be done to repair the damage.
Guided by a trained facilitator, the process promotes understanding, accountability, and rebuilding trust where relationships have broken down. It is particularly valuable when emotional harm or resentment prevents families from moving forward. Unlike mediation, restorative justice does not always result in a formal agreement but aims to reshape relationships, creating a stronger foundation for cooperation in the future.
Is emotional healing needed for your family to move forward? Discuss the potential of restorative justice with our compassionate team. We help families in Edmonton rebuild trust. Schedule a conversation today.
Comparing the Two Approaches
Although mediation and restorative justice share the goal of reducing conflict outside of court, their methods and outcomes differ significantly.
- Focus: Mediation is primarily solution-driven, while restorative justice is relationship-driven.
- Timeframe: Mediation concentrates on current and future issues, while restorative justice looks backward to address past harms.
- Outcome: Mediation often results in written agreements, whereas restorative justice may produce commitments that are more personal or emotional in nature.
- Suitability: Mediation is generally best for families seeking quick, practical resolutions. Restorative justice works better when unresolved emotional issues are preventing constructive dialogue.
Both methods require the willingness of participants to engage honestly. If one party is uncooperative or abusive, the court may need to step in.
Need clarity on whether mediation or restorative justice suits your conflict? Our experienced Family Divorce Lawyer Edmonton can provide a clear, professional assessment. Call us help you choose the right path – 📞 +1 (780)-757-6400.
Choosing the Right Process
Deciding between mediation and restorative justice depends on the nature of the conflict. For disputes focused on custody schedules or property division, mediation is often the most efficient choice. For conflicts rooted in long-standing resentment or broken trust, restorative justice may provide the emotional repair needed before practical agreements can succeed.
Families in Edmonton who are uncertain about the right approach often consult legal professionals. An experienced Divorce Attorney in Edmonton can explain how each process fits within Alberta’s family law framework and advise on which option may offer the best results for a given situation.
Ready to resolve your family conflict with clarity and confidence? Visit our office at #212A – 10807 Castle Downs Road, Edmonton, AB, T5X 3N7 or message us online to book an appointment with a leading Divorce Lawyer in Edmonton.
Conclusion
Restorative justice and mediation both provide valuable alternatives to courtroom battles in family conflicts. Mediation is effective for reaching structured, enforceable agreements on immediate issues, while restorative justice focuses on repairing relationships and fostering long-term cooperation.
Neither method is universally “better.” The right choice depends on the family’s circumstances, the nature of the conflict, and the desired outcomes. By carefully evaluating their situation and seeking legal guidance when necessary, families can select the process that best supports their needs and protects the well-being of their children.
Don’t navigate this difficult decision alone. Contact Kolinsky Law, your trusted Divorce Attorney Edmonton, for expert guidance. Call +1 (780)-757-6400 or find us on Google My Business.
About David Kolinsky – Best Divorce Lawyers in Edmonton Alberta
At Kolinsky Law, we understand that family conflicts are more than just legal issues—they are deeply personal matters that affect your future and your children’s well-being. David Kolinsky, a leading Divorce Lawyer in Edmonton, brings a compassionate yet strategic approach to every case. With extensive experience in both mediation and collaborative law, he is dedicated to helping Alberta families find respectful, out-of-court solutions that preserve relationships and protect your interests. If you seek a resolution that prioritises your family’s peace and stability, trust David Kolinsky and our team to provide the expert guidance and support you deserve.
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by admin | Sep 24, 2025 | Best Criminal Lawyer, Blog, DUI, Impaired Driving Lawyers
Introduction
The decision of refusing a breathalyzer during an impaired driving stop is a critical one in Alberta. Impaired driving is one of the most tightly regulated offences in the province. When a driver is stopped by police and asked to provide a breath sample, there are two possible outcomes: the test may show a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit, or the driver may refuse to blow into the device.
Both choices have serious legal consequences, but many people are surprised to learn that refusing a breathalyzer is often treated as harshly as failing one. Understanding how Alberta law handles these situations is crucial for anyone facing an impaired driving investigation.
Facing an impaired driving investigation? Don’t navigate it alone. Contact our expert team of Impaired Driving Lawyers in Edmonton for a strategic defence. Schedule a Free Consultation.
Consequences of Failing a Breath Test
Failing a breath test means a blood alcohol concentration above 0.08. Penalties include a minimum $1,000 fine, a one-year licence suspension, possible enrolment in Alberta’s Ignition Interlock Program, and a criminal record.
Repeat offences bring steeper fines, longer suspensions, and the possibility of jail time. While serious, providing a sample sometimes leaves more room to challenge the accuracy of the test or the procedure followed by police.
A failed test doesn’t have to mean a guaranteed conviction. Explore your defence options with a DUI Lawyer Edmonton who challenges the evidence. Call us at +1 (780)-757-6400.
Consequences of Refusing a Breathalyzer
Refusing to provide a sample is a criminal offence under Section 320.15 of the Criminal Code. Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions program adds penalties such as a 90-day licence suspension and 30-day vehicle seizure, plus a minimum $1,000 fine.
A conviction results in a criminal record and, for repeat offences, longer suspensions, mandatory interlock, and possible jail time. Because refusal is viewed as avoiding evidence, courts often treat it as seriously as, or sometimes more seriously than, failing a test.
Refused a breathalyzer? The immediate penalties are severe. Get urgent legal help from a DUI Lawyer Edmonton to protect your rights and your licence. Contact us today.
Refusal vs. Failure: Which Is Worse?
On paper, the penalties for failing and refusing are very similar: fines, suspensions, and criminal records. The difference lies in how the law and the courts interpret the behaviour.
- Defence options: A failed test may be challenged by questioning the device’s calibration, police conduct, or timing of the sample. Refusal eliminates most of those arguments, since the offence is the act of non-compliance itself.
- Administrative penalties: Refusal often triggers immediate sanctions before the case even goes to court.
- Court perception: Judges may view refusal as deliberate obstruction, which can influence sentencing.
For many drivers, refusing a breathalyzer ends up being just as damaging as failing one, with fewer chances to contest the charge.
Whether you refused or failed, the strategy for your defence is critical. Trust your case to the Best Impaired Driving Lawyer Edmonton for expert guidance. Visit our website to learn more.
Possible Defences
- Although difficult, some defences are available in refusal cases. These may include:
- Medical conditions that make it impossible to blow properly.
- Evidence that the device malfunctioned or the demand was unclear.
- Breaches of constitutional rights, such as not being informed of the consequences of refusal.
Every case depends on the specific facts. Working with the Best Criminal Defence Lawyer in Edmonton can help identify whether procedural errors or rights violations create room for a defence.
Don’t assume you have no defence. Our skilled DUI Lawyers in Edmonton meticulously investigate every case for procedural errors. Get a case evaluation now.
Practical Considerations
Refusing a breathalyzer is rarely safer than taking one. Refusal leads to immediate licence suspension, vehicle impoundment, and a criminal record. By providing a sample, there may still be grounds to challenge the results. Anyone facing charges should seek prompt advice from the Best Criminal Lawyer in Edmonton to assess defences and minimise long-term consequences.
Time is of the essence in impaired driving cases. Secure your defence immediately with our experienced Impaired Driving Lawyers in Edmonton. Call +1 (780)-757-6400 for support.
Conclusion
Alberta law treats refusing a breathalyzer as a criminal offence equal to failing one, and in some respects, the consequences can be harsher. Both result in fines, licence suspensions, criminal records, and the potential for jail on repeat offences. Refusal removes many defence options and adds immediate penalties that begin before a case reaches court.
The safest course is always compliance with the law, but if charged, professional legal representation is essential. With the right guidance, individuals can better understand their options and work toward the best possible outcome in a difficult situation.
Charged with impaired driving or refusal in Alberta? Your future is too important to leave to chance. Contact Kolinsky Law, your dedicated DUI Lawyers in Edmonton, for a fierce and focused defence. Schedule your confidential consultation.
About David Kolinsky – DUI Lawyer Edmonton
David Kolinsky is a dedicated criminal defence lawyer with a focused practice on DUI and Impaired Driving Cases in Edmonton. With a deep understanding of the complexities of Alberta’s Immediate Roadside Sanctions and the Criminal Code, he provides aggressive and strategic representation for those facing licence suspensions, criminal charges, and the severe consequences that follow. David is committed to protecting his clients’ rights, challenging the evidence against them, and pursuing the best possible outcome. If you are facing impaired driving or breathalyzer refusal charges, trust David Kolinsky to be your strong advocate in court.
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by admin | Sep 23, 2025 | Best Criminal Lawyer, Blog, Criminal Defence Lawyer, Criminal Lawyers
Introduction
Weapons offences are among the most serious charges under Canadian criminal law. In Alberta, these cases can involve firearms, knives, or any item deemed a weapon when used to threaten or cause harm. Convictions often bring severe penalties, including mandatory jail terms, fines, prohibitions on firearm ownership, and a permanent criminal record.
Because these offences carry lasting consequences, knowing which legal defences may apply is essential. While every case depends on its facts, the Criminal Code and the Charter of Rights and Freedoms provide several recognised strategies that can be raised in court.
Facing a weapons charge? The stakes are too high to navigate alone. Contact our experienced defence team immediately for a confidential case review. Call us at +1 (780)-757-6400.
Common Weapons Offences in Alberta
Weapons charges can take many forms. The most frequent include:
- Unauthorised possession of a firearm – having a gun without a valid licence or registration.
- Possession for a dangerous purpose – carrying a weapon with intent to use it to intimidate or harm.
- Improper storage or careless use – failing to secure a firearm according to regulations.
- Restricted or prohibited firearm offences – possessing or using weapons classified as restricted or banned.
Each offence has distinct elements the Crown must prove, such as knowledge, control, or intent. A defence strategy focuses on challenging one or more of these elements.
Understanding the specific charge against you is the first step to building a defence. Let us analyse the details of your case. Reach out today.
Legal Defences to Weapons Offences
- Lack of Knowledge
The Crown must often prove the accused knew they possessed the weapon. If someone else stored it without your awareness, or you did not know it was classified as restricted, lack of knowledge may be a viable defence.
- Statutory Exceptions
The Criminal Code creates exceptions, such as where an individual is under direct supervision of a licence holder, or where a weapon is acquired and properly registered within the lawful grace period. Demonstrating that your situation falls within one of these exceptions can lead to dismissal of charges.
- Due Diligence
For regulatory offences like improper storage, you may argue that you took all reasonable steps to comply with the law. If circumstances beyond your control prevented full compliance, due diligence can serve as a defence.
- Charter Breaches
Many weapons cases involve searches of homes, vehicles, or persons. If police exceeded their authority or violated your Charter rights during a search or seizure, the evidence may be excluded. Without that evidence, the Crown’s case can collapse.
- Misclassification of the Weapon
In some cases, disputes arise over whether an object meets the legal definition of a restricted or prohibited weapon. If experts can show the item was wrongly classified, the charge may not stand.
Which defence strategy applies to your situation? Our expertise in criminal law is key to identifying and arguing the right defence. Email us at [email protected] to discuss your options.
What Affects the Strength of a Defence
Not every defence succeeds in every case. Courts look closely at:
- Quality of evidence – including police records, witness credibility, and forensic reports.
- The accused’s intent – whether there was genuine belief the conduct was lawful.
- Criminal history – prior offences can affect how the court views both credibility and sentencing.
- Timing – raising Charter arguments and preserving evidence early often strengthens the defence.
The strength of your defence depends on swift, strategic action. Don’t wait—secure your legal defence now. Call +1 (780)-757-6400 for urgent assistance.
Why Legal Representation Is Critical
Weapons charges move quickly and carry severe consequences, including jail, firearm bans, and limits on work or travel. Defending these cases demands strong knowledge of criminal and constitutional law.
The Best Criminal Lawyer in Edmonton can assess every possible defence, from lack of knowledge to unlawful search. With skilled representation, it is possible to challenge the Crown’s evidence, seek reduced penalties, or pursue acquittal. In serious cases, the Best Criminal Defence Lawyer in Edmonton can be critical to protecting your future.
Your future deserves the strongest possible defence. Learn how we can help by visiting our website. or see what our clients say on our Google My Business page.
Conclusion
Weapons offences in Alberta carry some of the toughest penalties in Canadian criminal law. Yet the law also provides important protections. Defences such as lack of knowledge, statutory exceptions, due diligence, Charter breaches, and misclassification of weapons can all change the course of a case.
Anyone charged with a weapons offence should act quickly. With skilled legal counsel, it is possible to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and pursue the best possible outcome in a difficult situation.
David Kolinsky – Criminal Defence Lawyer Edmonton
When your liberty and future are on the line, you need an advocate who understands the complexities of weapons offences. David Kolinsky brings focused experience and a strategic approach to defending clients against serious weapons charges in Edmonton. He is dedicated to protecting your rights, exploring every legal defence, and vigorously challenging the Crown’s case to seek the best possible outcome.
by admin | Aug 22, 2025 | Blog, Domestic Violence Charges Lawyer, Domestic Violence Lawyer
Introduction
Being accused of Domestic Violence Charges in Edmonton is a serious situation. A conviction can result in jail, fines, strict probation terms, and long-term consequences for your career, reputation, and family relationships. Because these cases are sensitive and emotionally charged, the courts treat them with great care. Protecting your future requires understanding your rights and preparing a strong defence from the start.
Facing accusations? The first 24 hours are critical. Contact our domestic violence lawyers for immediate guidance.
What Domestic Violence Charges Involve
Domestic violence is not limited to physical assault. It can include threats, harassment, intimidation, mischief, or breaches of no-contact orders within a family or intimate partner context. In Edmonton, prosecutors and police handle these cases with urgency. Once a charge is laid, it is rarely withdrawn without a court process. That means even if a complainant later changes their story, the Crown may still proceed. Understanding this reality helps you prepare for what lies ahead.
Immediate Consequences After an Arrest
An arrest for domestic violence often results in immediate restrictions, such as no-contact orders, mandatory removal from the family home, or limits on seeing children. These conditions can drastically change your daily life and strain family relationships. In some cases, breaches of bail conditions can result in additional charges and harsher penalties. Acting quickly with the help of a Best Domestic Violence Lawyer in Edmonton Alberta ensures you address these restrictions while protecting your rights.
Worried about bail conditions? We can help you seek modifications to protect your family access.
Building a Defence Strategy
Every domestic violence case is unique, and the defence must match the facts. Common strategies include:
- Challenging credibility: Highlighting inconsistencies in witness statements or showing evidence does not support the allegation.
- Self-defence: Demonstrating that your actions were taken to protect yourself or someone else from harm.
- False allegations: Proving the accusation was motivated by anger, custody disputes, or attempts to gain an advantage in family proceedings.
- Insufficient evidence: Arguing the Crown has not met the standard of proof required for a conviction.
An experienced defence lawyer will examine police records, witness statements, and every piece of evidence in detail to build the strongest possible defence for you.
The Role of Evidence
Strong evidence is the foundation of your defence. Surveillance footage, text messages, medical records, or testimony from neutral witnesses can all play an important role in proving your side of the story. Equally important is identifying gaps in the prosecution’s case. Police may have rushed the investigation, overlooked inconsistencies, or failed to follow proper procedures. Exposing these weaknesses can significantly influence the judge’s decision.
Our team meticulously investigates every detail. Let us review your case and build a powerful defence.
How Domestic Violence Affects Family Law Matters
Domestic violence charges often overlap with family law issues. No-contact orders or restrictions can disrupt parenting schedules and custody matters. Such allegations may also arise in divorce proceedings, influencing discussions around parenting time and financial support.
At Kolinsky Law, we combine our experience as Divorce Lawyers in Edmonton with our criminal defence practice to ensure that your case is managed from both perspectives. This holistic approach helps protect not only your liberty but also your relationship with your children.
Why Legal Representation Matters
Domestic violence cases are intricate, and their consequences often extend well beyond the courtroom. Handling them alone risks severe penalties and long-term harm. Guidance from the Best Criminal Lawyer in Edmonton gives you the knowledge to navigate proceedings, challenge the prosecution, and present a strong defence. Skilled legal representation can determine whether you face conviction or acquittal, and whether penalties are harsh or reduced.
Don’t risk your future. Secure expert legal representation from the start.
How We Can Help
At Kolinsky Law, we understand the high stakes involved in domestic violence cases. We carefully analyse every detail of your situation, craft a defence tailored to your circumstances, and advocate vigorously for your rights in court.
Our team works to minimise immediate restrictions, challenge weak evidence, and protect your reputation and family relationships. If you are dealing with Domestic Violence Charges in Edmonton, we are ready to stand by you and work toward the most favourable outcome.
Schedule a confidential case review today. Call us at +1 (780)-757-6400 or email [email protected]
About the Lawyer – David Kolinsky
David Kolinsky is the founding lawyer at Kolinsky Law and is highly regarded as a leading Criminal and Family Defence Lawyer in Edmonton. With extensive experience defending clients against serious allegations, including Domestic Violence Charges in Edmonton, David provides strategic and assertive legal guidance. He is dedicated to protecting his clients’ rights, freedom, and reputations, understanding the profound impact these charges have on family dynamics and future opportunities. His direct, thorough approach ensures clients are fully informed and robustly represented at every stage of the legal process.
Ready to build your defence? Contact David Kolinsky for a confidential consultation.
Phone: +1 (780)-757-6400
Email: [email protected]
Visit our Google My Business page to read reviews from clients we’ve helped: Kolinsky Law Reviews
