5 Divorce Questions — Coast to Coast (Canadian Edition): Interview of Quebec Lawyer Orna Hilberger
This week we interview Westmount, Quebec lawyer Orna Hilberger. Ms. Hilberger has been practicing Family Law since 1986. She attended McGill University for both an undergraduate degree in Commerce and two Civil Law degrees and completed the Quebec Bar in 1986.
Russell Alexander: “How often do people ask you for advice or guidance about separation and divorce and in which jurisdictions do you practice in?”
Orna Hilberger: “I am constantly asked advice about separation and divorce since I have concentrated almost exclusively in this field for the past 29 years. I am only licensed to practice in the province of Quebec but certainly travel outside the jurisdiction of Montreal for the various courthouses.”
Russell Alexander: “What are the biggest concerns people raise with you about separation and divorce?”
Orna Hilberger: “The answer to this varies as to whether men or women are asking the question. Invariably, men are concerned about payments, whether it be short or long term alimony and concerns over property division. On the other hand, women seem to be more concerned about custody and access and secondarily about financial issues.”
Russell Alexander: “What advice do you have for people looking for a family lawyer?”
Orna Hilberger: “Do your homework. Ask other lawyers for references concerning family law lawyers and look online for cases they may have been involved with.”
Russell Alexander: “What are the top 3 tips you have for people going through a divorce?”
Orna Hilberger:
1. Be patient and do not expect a divorce to happen overnight.
2. Ensure that any agreement will look after both your short and long term needs.
3. Ensure that you keep a level head because not every issue is a major one.
Russell Alexander: “What do you envision for the future of family law?”
Orna Hilberger: “I envision a collaborative field that urges the participants to make their own terms of settlement in that they have to live with the outcome.”
