Family Law Act

What is the Family Law Act?

The Family Law Act (FLA) is Alberta’s main family law. It came into effect on October 1, 2005. It covers most family law matters, except for divorce.

Last Reviewed: September 2019

What does the Family Law Act cover?

The Family Law Act covers many family law matters, including:

• determining who are the parents and guardians of a child;
• parenting and contact orders (time with children);
• child support;
• spousal or partner support.

Last Reviewed: September 2019

What does the Family Law Act not cover?

The Family Law Act does not cover:

• child welfare matters (see the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act);
• adoptions (see the Child, Youth and Family Enhancement Act);
• divorces (see the Divorce Act);
• children’s property under the Minor’s Property Act;
• division of property (see the Family Property Act);
• definition of adult interdependent relationships (see the Adult Interdependent Relationships Act).

See below for links to more FAQs on some of the topics listed above.

Last Reviewed: January 2020

Where can I get further information about the Family Law Act?

For more information about the Act and family law in general:

• LawCentral Alberta – links to resources about family law
• Government of Alberta – Family law assistance webpage
• Government of Alberta – Information on law law legislation and resources. Page provides links to resources on child support, spousal support, parenting arrangements, court forms and procedures, child protection and private guardianship.
• Alberta Queen’s Printer – for copies of Alberta legislation
• Your lawyer can help if you have questions or need legal advice on personal family law matters.
• If you do not have a lawyer, call the Law Society of Alberta Lawyer Referral service toll-free in Alberta at 1-800-661-1095.
• Legal Aid Alberta
• Maintenance Enforcement Program
• Alberta Children’s Services
• Alberta Family Mediation Society – to find a family law mediator in Alberta

Last Reviewed: September 2019