Bill C-560 was a failed attempt in Canada to try and change the Divorce Act. The goal was to push for equal access to the kids for both parents. It made it to the second reading, but it was shot down in 2014. We included a video at the end of this article.

In 2021 (seven years after Bill C-560 was defeated) there were finally changes to the Canadian Divorce Act. The new laws came out on March 1, 2021. We found a helpful graphic that explains some of the changes. While the law changes were passed in March 2021, they affect any divorce after July 1, 2020.

Even if you were in the middle of a divorce in March 2021, you are affected. The law is an update to the Divorce Act, not a new law, or Act.

As you can see in the graphic, in the past there were terms called “custody” and “access.” Custody meant sole custody, joint custody, and other variations.

Bill C-560 And The Divorce Act

The new language is trying to get away from the idea of one spouse winning custody, and dominating the other spouse. The reality is there is no winning during a child custody battle. Everyone is damaged, especially the children. Marriage is complex, and so is divorce.

So instead of winning custody, you are going for “parenting time” and “decision-making responsibility.” There is also the new term “contact for non-spouses.” This was most likely created for the benefit of step-parents and grandparents. There are so many “contact” cases filed by grandparents. Sometimes it’s just because the grandparents want to see their grandchild, other times it’s because they believe the biological parent is unstable to raise a kid.

You can see the video below if you are interested in Bill C-560. If not, you can learn about the new Divorce Act at the link. It will explain what you need to know! The article was written by Legal Aid.