Bringing Back Debtor's Prison: Civil Enforcement of Family Law Judgements
Presented by the CBA Alberta Family Law (South) Section
On Demand. Originally presented on Sep. 15, 2026.
This practical lunch and learn will walk family lawyers through the civil enforcement tools available in Alberta and the steps involved in actually putting them to use.
The presentation will cover enforcement of costs awards and judgments, collection of unpaid legal fees following taxation, and enforcement of arbitration awards and trial judgments. Topics will include converting arbitration awards under s. 49 of the Arbitration Act, filing Court of Justice judgments with the Court of King’s Bench, writs of enforcement and Personal Property Registry registration, garnishment of wages and other sources of income, and the potential role of contempt proceedings.
Designed specifically for family law practitioners, the session will focus on the practical process: where to start, what to file, which enforcement options may be available in different circumstances, and the issues lawyers should watch for when advising clients about collection and enforcement.
PRESENTERS
Erin Morrison (Associate, Morrison LLP)
Emily Varga (Partner, VML Family Law LLP)
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