Stepparent Child Support, Adoption without Consent and Band Council Fiduciary Duty

Strap in for a thrilling conversation with Barrister and Solicitor, Michael Mulligan, as we navigate the tricky terrain of family law and indigenous governance. Curious about how the court defines a 'spouse' and how that affects child support? We dissect a case of a former stepfather, compelled to shoulder significant monetary responsibilities for three children, despite the fluctuating nature of his relationship with their mother. Listen as Michael enlightens us about how the BC Family Law Act interprets 'spouse', a definition that might surprise you.Ever wondered how adoption laws work in British Columbia? We delve into a unique case of a teenager yearning for adoption by his stepmother, and the hurdles he faces due to his biological mother's refusal. To top it all, we also scrutinize a controversial case involving a Canadian First Nations band council charged with misconduct. We discuss allegations of breach of fiduciary obligations, the band's counter-argument, and the broader implications of this case for indigenous communities. This is a rollercoaster ride through some high-stakes legal cases and their wider impacts. So, tune in for some thought-provoking discussions on family, identity, and justice.Follow this link for a transcript of the show and links to the cases discussed.