Noelle Yhard, Associate

Noelle graduated from the Schulich School of Law at Dalhousie University in June of 2014. During her time at the Schulich School of Law, she was involved in the greater law school community participating in numerous committees and organizations, including Pro Bono Students Canada. Since her call to Nova Scotia bar in 2015, she has focused her practice in the area of family law.

Having a practice focused on family law has allowed Noelle to develop a deep and thorough understanding of this area. She is able to take this knowledge and apply it critically, and practically, to each case before her. As a result, Noelle is experienced in assisting her clients in navigating the legal system, carefully advising on the process and procedures. She appreciates that the law can be complex and confusing, and is committed to ensuring clients understand all options available to them.

Noelle works hard to reach amicable, and practical, solutions for clients. She understands the cost of litigation, and the value in reaching out of court settlements. However, regularly appearing before the Supreme Court (Family Division) has provided Noelle the experience to take matters to courts when necessary, and to be an effective advocate for her clients.

What constitutes common law?

A common law relationship is simply the act of living together in a marriage-like relationship without actually being legally married. It does not require any kind of legal process to create a common law union. The definition of common law partnership also differs depending on the laws applied. For example, the Canada Pension Plan states that two people are in a common law relationship after a year of cohabitation. The Parenting and Support Act, on the other hand, requires two years of cohabitation before a relationship can be described as common law.