Firm News
Oct 26, 2024
On October 24, 2024, Jeff Robinson, a partner at Rush Ihas Hardwick LLP, delivered an insightful presentation at the Continuing Legal Education Society of British Columbia (CLEBC) Advanced Financial Issues in Family Law Conference. This annual event, widely regarded as one of the most important gatherings for family law practitioners in British Columbia whose practices focus on high-net worth separations, brought together many of the province’s top legal minds to address the latest challenges and developments in family law.
Jeff’s presentation focused on the complex topic of tax-driven imputation of income under the Child Support Guidelines, a sometimes critical issue in family law disputes, particularly those involving high-income earners. Determining income under these guidelines is essential not only for calculating child support but also for establishing spousal support, making it a cornerstone of financial resolution in family law cases.
Key areas covered in Jeff’s presentation included:
- Imputation of untaxed income: Exploring how to fairly determine income for support purposes when the payor’s earnings are untaxed.
- Income in foreign jurisdictions: Addressing discrepancies when income is earned in countries with tax rates significantly lower than Canada’s.
- Compensation for non-deductibility of spousal support: Strategies for leveling the playing field when a payor’s income is untaxed or taxed in a jurisdiction that does not allow spousal support deductions.
Determining Guidelines income is particularly relevant in high-income disputes and is pivotal in achieving support outcomes that are fair for both the payee and the payor. Jeff’s analysis provided practitioners with a deeper understanding of the complexities of imputed income and practical solutions for handling these nuanced financial issues.
The CLEBC Advanced Financial Issues in Family Law Conference is a valued resource for family law practitioners, featuring thought leadership and collaboration among British Columbia’s most skilled lawyers. Jeff’s presentation exemplified the depth, clarity, and practicality that are a hallmark of Rush Ihas Hardwick LLP’s litigation work, underscoring his expertise in navigating the intersection of taxation and family law.
Rush Ihas Hardwick LLP is proud of Jeff Robinson’s contribution to this prestigious event, and his role in demonstrating the firm’s commitment to excellence in resolving complex family law disputes.