Program Chairs

Julie K. Hannaford

J K Hannaford Barristers PC

Alexi Wood

St. Lawrence Barristers PC

Tort claims are the new frontier in family law. Do you have what you need to advise with confidence?

Designed by and for family law professionals, this NEW program is an essential how-to-guide for identifying, advancing and defending tort claims in family law matters. In one intensive day, our experts will provide you with the key knowledge, practical strategies and precedents you need to navigate this complex area. Connect in an engaging in-person forum, or join us online.

In light of the SCC’s recent decision in Ahluwalia, family law professionals are increasingly grappling with potential claims for intimate partner violence (IPV), battery, assault, intentional infliction of mental distress and a myriad of other torts. Tort actions are complex and nuanced. Mistakes can be critical. And costly.

Ahluwalia has ushered in a sea change in the understanding of intimate partner relationships and intimate partner violence.  The way that the tort of IPV is pleaded, along with other torts, together with the option to claim for damages, requires family lawyers to reconfigure the way that their cases are presented if and when family violence is present.

In one intensive day, acquire a critical understanding of what claims are available to your client and the best practices for advancing them.

Can’t Make the Date? Registration includes 120-day unlimited, online access to the recorded program.

What You’ll Learn

What is a tort?

What claims are available in the family law context, including new and emerging torts

Moving the tort action forward in the family law universe:

  • Notice (should you give it?)
  • Parties – including derivative and subrogated claims
  • Pleadings and defensive pleadings (including sample precedents)
  • Navigating limitation periods and releases

How to identify the cause of action, including guidance for how to elicit key information from your client

Damages: Drill down on the various heads of damages and critical guidance on proving them

Key process pieces, including publication bans

View from the Bench: valuable insights from judges grappling with torts in family law claims

PLUS! Registration includes access to Torts 101. In this on-demand pre-program primer, we will take you through everything you forgot from law school. Understand the universe of tort claims, including a foundational overview of intentional torts and negligence.

Who Should Attend

Family law lawyers

General practitioners whose practice includes family law

Torts/personal injury lawyers

Other non-legal professionals who work in family law

Faculty

Program Chairs

Julie K. Hannaford

J K Hannaford Barristers PC

Alexi Wood

St. Lawrence Barristers PC

Register

Oct 7, 2026

Registration includes access to Torts 101.

$595 + TAX

Time

Oct 7, 2026
9:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m (ET)

Nov 11, 2026

Registration includes access to Torts 101.

$595 + TAX

Time

Nov 11, 2026
9:00 a.m – 5:00 p.m (ET)

Printable registration form

If a downloadable form is required, please contact OsgoodePD@osgoode.yorku.ca.

“Is financial assistance or funding available?”

As law evolves, we know how important it is to stay up to date. We also understand the financial implications of continuously upgrading your professional skills and knowledge. For more information on available options, including Job Grants, OSAP, please visit:

CPD and Accreditation

Please Note

Final CPD accreditation has yet to be confirmed. Confirmed hours will be available soon.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Client and Technical Support

Have questions? Get advice in person, by email or over the phone.

Program content questions

Alison Hurst, Program Lawyer
ahurst@osgoode.yorku.ca

Online Technical Requirements

To ensure you do not encounter any issues that will impact or limit your learning experience, please review the following information.